Early Complications and Associated Perioperative Factors in Nonsyndromic Craniosynostosis

Abstract

This is the first Eastern center-based retrospective report on early complications and associated perioperative factors of nonsyndromic craniosynostosis (NSC). The authors' purpose is to tailor preoperative counseling, convey objective perioperative data, and determinants for early complications in NSC so as to enhance exchanges with international center. Inclusion criteria required a diagnosis of NSC confirmed by 3-dimentional computed tomography scans and complete medical record. Genetic evidence of syndromic craniosynostosis was excluded. Study population was divided into 4 groups based on the suture involvement, which were compared with respect to demographics, perioperative factors, and the occurrence of complications. Demographic data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Categorical variables were analyzed using the Fisher exact test. Continuous variables were analyzed using the Kruskal-Wallis test. To better study key determinants for early complications, regression analysis was performed. It revealed a predominance of sagittal (n = 36) throughout the time period studied. Eastern China (n = 33) and Southwest China (n = 13) were the top 2 districts where patients came. The authors also reported an overall rate of early complication of 80% (n = 52). The most common were pyrexia (n = 50). Blood loss was a risk (P = 0.041; OR, 1.102); meanwhile, transfusion of concentrated red blood cells was a higher risk (P = 0.035; OR, 2.033). This study represents the authors' initial 4 years practice in NSC. The authors are endeavoring to enhance exchanges with Western centers.