Cephaloceles: classification, pathology, and management--a review.

The spectrum of diseases that give rise to cephaloceles is reviewed with particular reference to conditions encountered by craniofacial teams. The broad term cephalocele contains the more focused term meningoencephalocele, which is most commonly used by craniofacial surgeons. The interesting pathology of frontoethmoidal meningoencephaloceles is described with reference to the experience of the Australian Craniofacial Unit from 1975 to 1993. Further observations supporting the uniqueness of this entity are made. Although the meningoencephalocele associated with craniofacial clefts does not in itself affect treatment, the management of frontoethmoidal meningoencephaloceles is dependent on a knowledge of their unique natural history. Long-term follow-up has allowed a number of conclusions to be reached in the light of treatment. Basal and posttraumatic encephaloceles are described with respect to their place in the classification system as well as the principles of treatment.