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What is a Cranial Helmet?
A cranial remolding helmet (CRO) is a custom-fitted device used to gently guide a baby's head shape during growth. The helmet works by applying gentle pressure to specific areas of the skull while leaving room for growth in flatter regions, helping to guide the head into a more balanced and symmetrical shape over time.
The helmet treatment is effective in infants from 3-18 months. The optimal window to start treatment is between 4-6 months due to the decrease in skull growth rate as the child ages.
What do cranial remolding helmets treat?
Plagiocephaly
Plagiocephaly develops when a baby spends too much time lying on his or her back. It doesn't cause brain damage or interfere with a baby's development.
It might be most noticeable when looking at a baby's head from above. The cheekbone and ear on the flat side might look pushed forward.
Brachycephaly
Brachycephaly is a condition characterised by a flattened area at the back of the skull. Most parents notice their baby’s brachycephalic head shape when their baby is around eight weeks of age, with their baby’s head appearing wider than expected and their ears sometimes being pushed outwards.
Scaphocephaly
Scaphocephaly is an early closure or fusion of the sagittal suture. This suture runs front to back, down the middle of the top of the head. This fusion causes a long, narrow skull. The skull is long from front to back and narrow from ear to ear.
Are there different styles of helmets?
Yes, there are different styles of cranial remolding helmets to suit individual needs. The STARband 3D is the standard choice, offering a precise fit using advanced 3D scanning technology for optimal results. The STARband Side Opening provides easier application for babies with certain medical conditions or sensitivities. The STARlite is a lightweight option designed for enhanced comfort while maintaining effective treatment. Each style is tailored to provide the best possible outcome for your child.
Our certified staff will evaluate the head shape, condition, patient's age and expected skull growth to determine which helmet style will provide the best and fastest treatment.
STARband 3D
STARband Side Opening
STARlite
How are scans taken?
We utilize the Orthomerica SmartSoc scanning system. The SmartSoc system uses cutting-edge technology to capture precise 3D images of your baby’s head in just minutes. A lightweight fabric cap with embedded sensors is placed on your baby’s head while they are comfortably seated. Using a handheld scanner, the system quickly and safely maps the shape of the head, creating a highly accurate digital model. This non-invasive process is fast, gentle, and ensures a perfect fit for custom cranial remolding helmets like the STARband 3D.
Treatment Plan
During treatment, parents ensure the baby wears the cranial helmet 23 hours per day. Regular follow up visits ensure that the orthotist can monitors changes and make adjustments to the orthotic fit. The orthotist also monitors and documents improvements in the infant's condition. Average duration of treatment is 3-6 months.
Tummy Time Instructions
Break-in/Wearing Schedule
Progressively increase the time spent in the orthosis over a 5 day period to allow for acclimation.
After the first 5 days, the orthosis should be worn 23 hours/day to attain optimal treatment results.
Activities that require the orthosis to be removed (e.g., bathing, therapy) should be limited to 1 hour per day, if possible.
STARband 3D Use & Care.pdfFAQ
Is it painful to wear?
Wearing the helmet is not painful or uncomfortable for your baby.
How do cranial helmets work?
Helmets do not squeeze the skull, but rather guide skull growth. The helmet is made to touch the parts of the skull that stick out (areas of bossing) and provide a space for the flat areas to grow into naturally. Gentle, persistent pressures are applied to capture the natural growth of a baby’s head while inhibiting growth in the prominent areas and allowing for growth in the flat regions. The amount of improvement is directly proportional to the amount of growth during their time in the helmet. Helmets are worn 23 hours per day to capture all of the growth. It is most beneficial to begin as young as possible, starting as young as 3 months.
What causes skull deformities?
The most common cause of head shape deformation constant pressure on the same part of the skull. This can be sleeping in the same position to preferring to always look right when laying on it's back. An infant's head triples in size in the first 12 months of life. During this time, their head is susceptible to external pressure that may influence the shape. Certain factors can increase the risk of skull deformity including multiple births, prematurity and torticollis.
Does health insurance pay for the helmet?
Health insurance coverage for cranial remolding helmets varies by provider and policy. Some plans may cover it if deemed medically necessary, while others may not. It's best to check with your insurance provider for specific details. We are happy to contact insurance on your behalf and verify coverage.
Medicaid does currently cover cranial remolding helmets. (2024)
References
http://oandpnews.org/2004/04/15/coding-and-reimbursement-for-cranial-remolding-orthoses/
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