Skull & Cranial Anatomy
Skull
The skull is the bony framework of the head that encloses and protects the brain.
In short: Skull
- An encephalocele forms when there is an opening in the skull.
- The skull includes the cranium (around the brain) and the facial bones.
- Repairing the skull defect restores protection and shape.
- The infant skull is still growing, which affects how repairs heal.
What it is
It is the bony structure of the head, made up of many bones that protect the brain and shape the face. In encephalocele, an abnormal opening in the skull allows brain and membranes to protrude.
Understanding Skull
Surgery closes and reconstructs the skull opening as part of repair, restoring the protective barrier around the brain. In infants and young children, the skull is still growing and has a strong capacity to heal, which surgeons take into account when planning reconstruction. The skull's normal growth features — sutures and fontanelles — are different from the abnormal opening that causes an encephalocele.
Why it matters
Understanding the skull's protective role clarifies why rebuilding the bony defect is an essential part of repair, not just an appearance issue — it restores protection for the brain.
Common questions
Why does the skull matter in encephalocele?
The defect occurs in the skull, allowing protrusion.
Is the opening repaired?
Yes, during surgery.
Does the child's age affect repair?
Yes — the growing skull has a strong capacity to heal.
Bottom line
The skull protects the brain, and an opening in it underlies an encephalocele that is closed during repair.
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