Types of Encephalocele by Location
Frontoethmoidal encephalocele
A frontoethmoidal encephalocele is an anterior encephalocele that protrudes between the frontal and ethmoid bones, near the root of the nose and the eyes.
In short: Frontoethmoidal encephalocele
- It is common in Southeast Asia.
- It is divided into nasofrontal, nasoethmoidal, and naso-orbital subtypes.
- It can affect eye spacing and appearance.
- Repair commonly involves craniofacial reconstruction.
What it is
It is a sincipital (anterior) encephalocele arising at the junction of the frontal and ethmoid bones, near where the nose meets the forehead and eyes. It is divided into three subtypes based on exactly where it emerges.
Understanding Frontoethmoidal encephalocele
These present as a mass near the nose and eyes and can be associated with widely spaced eyes (hypertelorism). The three subtypes — nasofrontal (at the nasal bridge), nasoethmoidal (along the side of the nose), and naso-orbital (toward the eye socket) — describe the precise location of the protrusion. Craniofacial reconstruction addresses both function and facial symmetry, and because the face grows, appearance evolves and staged surgery is sometimes planned. Frontoethmoidal encephaloceles are notably more common in parts of Southeast Asia.
Why it matters
Understanding the subtypes and their effect on eye spacing helps families grasp why repair is both neurosurgical and reconstructive, and why the team plans carefully around the eyes and central face.
Common questions
What are the subtypes?
Nasofrontal, nasoethmoidal, and naso-orbital.
Can it affect the eyes?
Yes, including eye position and spacing.
Why is craniofacial surgery involved?
To restore both function and facial appearance.
Bottom line
A frontoethmoidal encephalocele protrudes near the nose and eyes, has three subtypes, and is repaired with craniofacial techniques.
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