SEPTAL AND ASSOCIATED CRANIAL BIRTH DEFORMITIES TYPES, INCIDENCE AND TREATMENT

Abstract

Four types of cranial deformity found at birth caused by variable amounts of pressure during pregnancy or parturition, are described. These are: cranial vault moulding (Type 1); mandibular malalignment on the maxillary margin (Type 2); anterior or external nasal deformity (Type 3); and facial deformity with maxillary compression and internal nasal deformity (Type 4). The method of production of the maxillary moulding theory, incidence, natural history, treatment and results are described. A method of recording these deformities is described and a new method of routine examination and assessment is recommended. In Type 3 not only is the nasal septal cartilage deformed, but evidence is given that also a fracture deformity of the nasal bones may occur. In Type 4 testing by nasal testing struts in 2,000 babies gave the following result: straight (52%); deformity on both sides (12%); minor irregularity of one side (19%); and gross obstruction on one side (17%). The importance of septal deformity in the ætiology of nose and ear disease, headache and malocclusion is stressed. These deformities are considered to be non-preventable, and appear to be fairly constant for each race. The main factors appear to be the shape and strength of the skulls and the erect posture, for septal deformity occurs only in man and the higher apes. Two new manipulation techniques are described, one for Type 3 and the other for Type 4 cases. Work is presented demonstrating the use of these manipulative techniques, not only in the immediate short term, but also in the longer aim of prevention of disease. It is considered that there is a place for routine nasal assessment and treatment of newborn babies.