Abstract
BACKGROUND: Cranial deformities in children under 2 can lead to functional and cosmetic issues, with their frequency increasing due to sleep positioning practices. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of custom-made corrective helmets in treating these deformities. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The study included 30 children under 2 in Astana, Kazakhstan, using 3D scanning to create custom corrective helmets worn for 23 hours a day over 5 months. RESULTS: The results showed a significant improvement in the shape and symmetry of the skull after therapy. The asymmetry between the left and right front dimensions decreased from 9 mm to 3 mm, which corresponds to the age norm. The anterior-posterior size of the skull increased from 129 mm to 142 mm, the lateral size - from 123 mm to 129 mm, and the head circumference - from 41.5 cm to 43.5 cm, which indicates normal development of the skull. The majority of parents (90%) noted that children adapted easily to wearing helmets and experienced high levels of comfort. The data obtained indicate that the use of corrective helmets is an effective and safe method of non-surgical treatment of cranial deformities in young children. This avoids surgery and the associated risks, ensuring an improvement in the shape of the skull and the quality of life of patients. CONCLUSIONS: This study highlights the effectiveness of orthotic therapy for treating cranial deformities in young children, emphasizing the importance of early intervention and the potential for improved outcomes with timely, non-invasive treatment.