Cranial Molding Helmets: The Talee System
Parents often notice mild deformities in their baby’s skull and naturally begin to worry. Is this normal? Is this a problem? Will this go away on its on? What do we do about it? There can be normal reasons for a baby to have an abnormally shaped head. Passing through the birth canal can temporarily deform the baby’s head. This will normally resolve itself in a few weeks. However, if any flat spots or abnormal shaping are still apparent, some intervention may be required to correct the problem. Owens Carolina will work with your physician using Talee Cranial Remolding Orthosis helmets.
Head Shape Conditions
Brachycephaly is an abnormally wide head shape resulting from a central flattening of the back of the head. A bulging forehead and increased height at the back of the head may be noticed from the side view. This shape can also be asymmetrical.
Plagiocephaly presents as an asymmetrical head shape. The back of one side of the head will be flattened. This may push the forehead and ear on the same side forward.
Scaphocephaly presents as a long, narrow shape from the top view. You may notice the forehead and back of the head bulging in the side view.
Frequently Asked Questions
For starters, the whole family is invited. Mom, Dad, aunts, uncles, and grandparents. You will probably come with many questions, and it is important to us that you know the whole picture. If you need time to think about things, the first visit can be for education only. Should you decide to proceed, you will find the technology fascinating. No cast are made, because the whole process is digital. A scan is made of your baby’s head. The helmet is 3D printed from the file that is created. We make it our goal to make every visitor feel comfortable and welcome.
The reasons can vary. The physical environment the baby is in can be a factor. The way the baby lies in the womb and if there are twins can have an effect. However, most issues of head shape that originate in the womb will generally resolve in a few weeks after birth. If it does not, your pediatrician may recommend a molding helmet. Since the recommendation that babies no longer be left to sleep on their stomachs, the amount of back laying time has greatly increased. An infant may spend most of its time laying in a crib, and there is a thought that this can lead to the necessity for intervention.
The best time for cranial molding to be effective is 4 to 14 months of age, with 14 months being the time that the treatment begins to become less effective. If treatment is initiated after 14 months, it may be necessary to wear the helmet longer because growth of the head slows after this time. The length of time in the helmet is about 4 to 6 months.
Not at all. It will be necessary to inspect the skin to make sure there is no breakdown. You will be instructed on what to look for. The babies do not experience any discomfort. We are here to partner with you to see a successful outcome.
You will be given instructions on how to care for the skin and issues to look for. For starters, it’s important to keep the helmet clean. It should be washed daily and dried before placing it back on the baby’s head. It is important to keep the scalp clean. Your daily routine for bathing should be adequate.
There will be follow up appointments. You will be set up on a schedule that allows for changes to be made as your baby progresses. We will monitor the treatment, and make sure all is going well. We are available for in between visits. If there is something you specifically want us to check, you can face time us or send a picture. We are in this together, and we will be with you till you no longer need us.
