2. Recognize the history of the increased incidence of plagiocephaly and brachycephaly.
3. Understand the importance of early recognition and treatment, and the relationship between entry age and treatment outcomes.
4. Appreciate the current literature supporting treatment of plagiocephaly and evidence-based protocols for care.
5. Reflect on the current landscape surrounding insurance coverage of cranial orthoses and the relationship between insurance coverage and treatment access and the implications for federal health agencies and their beneficiaries.
This session presents a critical overview of deformational plagiocephaly-brachycephaly (DPB) in infants, with a focus on the recent increase in incidence, risk factors, treatment options, the impact of insurance coverage on treatment access, and implications for federal health agencies and their beneficiaries. First, key distinctions among the different cranial shapes, including plagiocephaly, brachycephaly, scaphocephaly, and craniosynostosis will be outlined, as well as a thorough review of the risk factors associated with DPB, including congenital muscular torticollis, intrauterine constraint, supine sleeping positions, and prematurity. Second, the unintended consequences of the “Back to Sleep” campaign, which aimed to reduce sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) and how this contributed to a sharp increase in incidence of DPB, will be presented. Third, a brief review of cranial anatomy and the mechanism behind head growth will provide insight into the development of these deformities and will underscore the necessity of timely intervention. Fourth, preventative strategies, including repositioning, neck exercises, and tummy time, will be reviewed alongside treatment options like cranial remolding orthoses (CROs), which capture and redirect growth to return the head to its natural configuration. Fifth, an exploration of the advancements in the regulatory clearance for CROs and evidence-based protocols for care will be highlighted, with an emphasis on the rapidly expanding body of literature. Lastly, the impact of insurance coverage on treatment access will be explored by comparing commercial insurance with state and federal programs, emphasizing how insurance disparities can critically influence treatment duration and outcomes. Concluding with a call to action, this presentation aims to highlight the importance of early recognition and intervention, equipping participants with tools to foster better health outcomes and increased access to care in this population.