Fetal Diagnosis and Treatment of Craniomaxillofacial Anomalies

So many advances in health care are built on the evolution of technology. In the case of fetal medicine, technology has availed an entirely new patient. Advances in prenatal imaging allow us to see and diagnose disease not previously appreciated. Armed with this information, clinicians can better plan for the delivery of the neonate such that any identified anomalies are optimally managed, and the impact on the neonate's health minimized. The oral and maxillofacial surgeon can be a key member in this team by offering expertise in the management of craniomaxillofacial anomalies including congenital tumors, facial clefts, craniosynostosis, micrognathia, and other congenital abnormalities. The techniques for perinatal care of the patient with craniofacial abnormalities continue to evolve as the technology improves. The review of the cases presented at the University of Pittsburgh Fetal Diagnosis and Treatment Team during the past 6 years has shown many opportunities for craniomaxillofacial prenatal evaluation. We describe our recent experience and some of the more common abnormalities with their management considerations that may be encountered by the oral and maxillofacial surgeon on the fetal diagnosis and treatment team.