Core Terms & Classification
Anterior encephalocele
An anterior encephalocele is located toward the front of the skull or face — frontal, frontoethmoidal, nasal, or basal.
In short: Anterior encephalocele
- As a group, anterior types generally carry a more favorable outlook than posterior ones.
- They are more common in parts of Southeast Asia.
- Repair often involves craniofacial reconstruction.
- The facial skeleton continues to remodel as a child grows.
What it is
It is an encephalocele in the front region of the head, encompassing several subtypes that involve the forehead, the area between the eyes and nose, or the skull base.
Understanding Anterior encephalocele
Because these involve the forehead, nose, and eye region, craniofacial surgeons are typically part of the team alongside neurosurgery. The facial skeleton continues to remodel as a child grows, so appearance evolves over years after repair, and staged procedures are sometimes planned. Anterior types are more common in certain parts of Southeast Asia and, as a group, generally carry a more favorable outlook than posterior encephaloceles — though each child's situation depends on contents and associated findings.
Why it matters
Understanding that anterior encephaloceles often involve facial reconstruction — and that the face keeps changing with growth — helps families set realistic expectations about appearance and the possibility of more than one procedure over time.
Common questions
Do anterior types have a better outlook?
Generally yes, compared with posterior types, though each case differs.
Will appearance change after surgery?
Yes — the face continues to remodel with growth.
Who is involved in the repair?
Often a team of neurosurgery and craniofacial surgery.
Bottom line
Anterior encephaloceles occur at the front of the head, generally carry a more favorable outlook, and often need craniofacial reconstruction.
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