What is a congenital scalp skin defect?
Aplasia cutis congenita means an area of skin did not fully form before birth. It commonly affects the scalp and may leave a hairless scar. The depth and extent vary, so a photograph alone is not enough to choose treatment.
Why might several specialties be involved?
Assessment considers the skin and surrounding tissues, with imaging when deeper structures may be affected. A skull defect may require neurosurgical involvement in planning. The aim is tissue protection and suitable coverage, rather than treating hair loss alone.
How does tissue expansion work?
An expander is placed beneath a suitable area of healthy skin and gradually filled during follow-up visits. The expanded tissue is later used to cover the affected area. This approach is not suitable for every scalp defect; assessment determines the alternatives and treatment stages.
What does follow-up involve, and what can photographs show?
Expansion requires regular review. Infection, leakage or a problem at the expander site may require a change in the plan. The team explains care and warning signs. Discuss the expected stages, scars, alternatives and the effect on work or school.
How should this documented case be read?
Dr Haber describes reconstruction using tissue expansion with neurosurgical collaboration. The records include pre-treatment photographs, medical imaging, expander follow-up including a problem with one device, then follow-up at three days and around two weeks after reconstruction. Dr Haber confirmed that the latest photographs show the final result for this case. Individual results vary.