• Cranial Remolding Orthoses

    At Pentland’s, we specialize in Cranial Remolding Orthoses (CROs) for babies with deformational head shape conditions, including plagiocephaly, brachycephaly, and scaphocephaly, as well as post-operative care for craniosynostosis.

    Each CRO is custom-made using a precise, non-invasive 3D scan to ensure an accurate and comfortable fit. Treatment typically spans approximately 3–6 months, with the orthosis worn for up to 23 hours per day, depending on the child’s individual treatment plan. We provide detailed guidance, regular follow-ups, and personalization options to support families throughout the treatment journey.

    Questions about your baby’s head shape? Our pediatric orthotics team is here to help.

  • Understanding the 3 Types of Deformational Head Shapes

    There are three common types of deformational head shapes: plagiocephaly, brachycephaly, and scaphocephaly. At Pentland’s, we recognize that each child is unique, particularly when it comes to conditions affecting skull development. We approach each case with a customized care plan tailored to meet the specific needs of your child.

    Our goal is to ensure that every child receives appropriate and individualized care, using Cranial Remolding Orthoses to guide skull growth toward a more symmetrical shape. It is also possible for a child to have a combination of these deformational head shapes, and CROs may be used to improve combined head shape differences.

    In this section, we describe these three common deformational head shape conditions and provide information to help parents better understand each condition and the treatment options available.

    Plagiocephaly

    Often referred to as “flat head syndrome,” plagiocephaly is characterized by asymmetrical flattening on one side of a baby’s head. It commonly develops from prolonged pressure on the same area of the skull and may be associated with a preferred sleeping position or torticollis, which involves tightness in the neck muscles.

    Plagiocephaly can lead to noticeable head shape differences, but with appropriate intervention, including the use of a CRO when clinically indicated, head shape symmetry may be improved as the baby grows.

    Brachycephaly

    Brachycephaly is identified by an overall flattening at the back of the head, giving the head a wider appearance. It can occur when babies spend an increased amount of time lying on the back of the head.

    Treatment with a CRO can help guide skull growth and encourage a more proportional head shape as the baby develops.

    Scaphocephaly

    Deformational scaphocephaly is characterized by a long, narrow head shape. This may develop from prolonged pressure on the sides of the head.

    Through the use of a CRO, growth may be guided to encourage a more balanced head shape.

  • Craniosynostosis

    Craniosynostosis is a cranial condition that can appear similar to a deformational head shape. The difference between deformational head shapes and craniosynostosis is the underlying cause of the head shape difference.

    Craniosynostosis occurs when one or more sutures between the bones of the skull fuse prematurely. This premature fusion affects cranial growth and can result in a head shape that resembles a deformational condition.

    However, craniosynostosis requires medical and surgical assessment. Surgery may be required to release the fused suture and allow the skull to continue growing. CROs may then be used post-operatively to guide skull growth and protect the surgical site. A customized treatment plan is developed in collaboration with the child’s medical team.

  • Funding Options

    We understand that the cost of a Cranial Remolding Orthosis (CRO) is an important consideration for many families. Our team is happy to help you understand the funding options that may be available and guide you through the application process.

    BC PharmaCare

    Many families in British Columbia may be eligible for financial assistance through BC PharmaCare for Cranial Remolding Orthosis treatment. Eligibility depends on your child's diagnosis, age at the start of treatment, clinical measurements, and your PharmaCare coverage.

    *Current BC PharmaCare eligibility includes:

    Plagiocephaly - 5 months to 12 months

    Brachycephaly - 5 months to 12 months

    Post-operative Craniosynostosis - 4 months to 12 months

    For families enrolled in Fair PharmaCare, coverage depends on your annual deductible and family maximum. Children covered under Plan C (B.C. Income Assistance) or Plan F (At Home Program) may also qualify for coverage.

    **Additional clinical criteria apply, including specific measurement thresholds and, for craniosynostosis, post-operative requirements. Our orthotists will assess your child's eligibility and explain the requirements during your appointment.

  • Private Extended Health Benefits

    Some extended health insurance plans may provide partial or full coverage for Cranial Remolding Orthoses. Coverage varies between insurance providers and individual benefit plans.

    For some insurance providers, we may be able to bill the insurer directly, depending on the plan and the insurer’s requirements. For other plans, we can assist with the application or reimbursement process by providing treatment estimates, clinical documentation, and any other supporting information that may be required.

    We recommend confirming your coverage with your insurance provider before treatment begins.

    We're Here to Help

    Our team has extensive experience helping families navigate BC PharmaCare and extended health insurance coverage.

    If your child is eligible for BC PharmaCare, there is no charge for the initial assessment. For eligible claims, we submit billing directly to BC PharmaCare at the time of fitting whenever possible. If your family is not yet registered for Fair PharmaCare, we are also happy to assist with the registration process.

    We will explain the available funding options, help prepare the required documentation, and support your family throughout the application and billing process.

    Cookie Use
    We use cookies to ensure a smooth browsing experience. By continuing we assume you accept the use of cookies.
    Learn More