Craniofacial disorders

The complexity of the craniofacial patient mandates the cooperation of a multidisciplinary team that can systematically evaluate each individual and ensure that a protocol-driven pathway is undertaken for the best patient care. Oral and maxillofacial surgeons contribute to surgical care in this setting with specific knowledge of growth and development of the face. This enables optimum timing for early skeletal correction where appropriate, and definitive surgery following the cessation of growth to maximize function and aesthetics. This chapter will describe the major principles in managing patients with specific craniofacial anomalies and provide examples of the outcomes possible.