Episode 26: Neurosurgery Update: Plagiocephaly vs. Craniosynostosis - When to Refer

https://cmetracker.net/UTHSCSA/Publisher?page=pubOpen#/getCertificate/10102806

FACULTY: Izabela Tarasiewicz, MD, is a professor in the Department of Neurosurgery at UT Health San Antonio.

OVERVIEW:

Host Holly Wayment talks with pediatric neurosurgeon Dr. Izabela Tarasiewicz as she explains the difference between positional plagiocephaly (flat head) and craniosynostosis (premature suture fusion), and why early detection matters.

The episode covers the critical early treatment window (ideally by 3–4 months) to allow minimally invasive surgery, when helmet therapy is helpful, and why pediatricians should refer rather than order X-rays.

Practical takeaways: trust parental concern, refer early to a head-shape or craniofacial clinic, and know that prompt evaluation can prevent larger surgeries and improve developmental outcomes.

University Health Craniofacial Program

Claudia Galaviz, Cleft & Craniofacial Coordinator

(210)-743-1402

Referral Fax: (210)-358-8576

UT Health Cranial Remolding Program

Referrals can be sent to evaluate all head shape abnormalities

Phone: (210) 450-9064

Fax: (210) 450-2150

OVERALL LEARNING OBJECTIVE: Increased awareness and education for pediatric providers

DISCLOSURE TO LEARNERS:

Speaker: Izabela Tarasiewicz, MD has disclosed she is a consultant for Aesculap, and Alafair. The relevant financial relationships noted for Dr. Tarasiewicz have been mitigated.

The Pediatrics Now Podcast Planning Committee members:Steven Seidner, MD, and Holly Wayment have no financial relationships with ineligible companies to disclose.

The University of Texas at San Antonio and Steven Seidner, MD course director and content reviewer for the activity, have reviewed all financial disclosure information for all speakers, facilitators, and planning committee members; and determined and resolved all conflicts of interests.

CONTINUING MEDICAL EDUCATION STATEMENTS: The University of Texas at San Antonio is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education to provide continuing medical education for physicians. The University of Texas at San Antonio designates this live activity up to a maximum of 0.50 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™.Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

CERTIFICATE OF ATTENDANCE: Healthcare professionals will receive a certificate of attendance and are asked to consult with their licensing board for information on applicability and acceptance. Credit may be obtained upon successful completion of the activity’s evaluation. RELEASE DATE: 7/2/2026

EXPIRATION DATE: 8/31/2028