Pfeiffer Syndrome Medical Malpractice Attorneys

Representing Victims and their Families in New York, New Jersey, and across the United States

The skull is composed of seven bones, or bony plates, that are loosely connected while the brain develops and expands. These seven bones typically fuse at the age of two, when the brain has adequately developed and the sutures that hinge the skull bones together close. In certain conditions, such as Pfeiffer syndrome and other forms of craniosynostosis, the skull bones fuse prematurely, compromising brain development and leading to cranial deformaties and other complications. Pfeiffer syndrome is a rare genetic condition that primarily affects the formation of the head and skull; however, the condition can also lead to deformaties in the face, hands, and feet. If a child is born with Pfeiffer syndrome, it is critical for physicians to expediently detect and begin treatment for the condition in order to achieve the best possible outcome. Failure to diagnose and treat Pfeiffer syndrome can cause catastrophic and often permanent harm and may provide grounds for a medical malpractice lawsuit.

At Fronzuto Law Group, our highly knowledgeable medical malpractice attorneys represent children and families across the U.S. who have suffered at the hands of negligent medical professionals. We utilize a wealth of knowledge in the realm of medical and pediatric malpractice to achieve maximum compensation for victims of birth injuries, failure to diagnose, and other medical errors. In recent years, we have achieved numerous verdicts and settlements on behalf of children who have suffered from craniosynostosis, plagiocephaly, and other cranial deformaties  In fact, our firm’s founder, Ernest P. Fronzuto, is a respected legal authority on complex pediatric malpractice cases and is called upon as a resource in these cases nationwide. As a firm, we are driven by a commitment to provide personalized service and attention to each and every client. By purposefully limiting our case load, we are able to develop a thorough understanding of both the medical and legal nuances of each case. To discuss your child’s case with a member of our knowledgeable legal team, please schedule a free initial consultation today by calling 973-435-4551  or toll free at 888-409-0816. You may also contact our law firm online.

“Ernie is a gifted litigator who made our family feel comfortable and safe. He protected us every step of the way. Our case was long and complicated and not only did Ernie learn about this rare condition, he became an expert!” – Former Client

What is Pfeiffer Syndrome?

Pfeiffer syndrome is rare condition caused by a genetic mutation. Pfeiffer syndrome occurs in approximately 1 out of every 100,000 individuals. Similar to other forms of craniosynostosis, Pfeiffer syndrome is characterized by the premature fusion of the skull bones, which impedes proper development of the brain and leads to abnormal formation of the head. In addition to the aforementioned symptoms, Pfeiffer syndrome can involve:

• Development delays
• Abnormally wide head
• Abnormally high forehead
• Retruded or sunken midface
• Abnormally small nose that may appear beak-like
• Wide-set eyes
• Shallow eye sockets with eyes that appear to bulge
• Hearing loss or deafness
• Vision problems or blindness
• Broad, short thumbs and big toes
• Webbed fingers and/or toes

The medical community has delineated three distinct types of Pfeiffer syndrome based on the presence and severity of certain symptoms. Type 1 Pfeiffer syndrome is marked by abnormalities in the skull, fingers, and toes. Those with Type 1 Pfeiffer syndrome do not have neurological impairments and are generally intellectually normal. Type 2 Pfeiffer syndrome is more severe, with sufferers who have the aforementioned symptoms as well as a cloverleaf-shaped skull, and neurological impairments, developmental delays, and vision problems. Individuals with Type 3 Pfeiffer syndrome have the same symptoms as Type 2 except they do not have the cloverleaf-shaped skull.

Pfeiffer Syndrome Diagnosis and Treatment

Typically, the physical symptoms of Pfeiffer syndrome serve as the primary indication of the condition, after which a genetic test can be used to confirm the diagnosis. Once your child is diagnosed with Pfeiffer syndrome, his or her doctor should develop a treatment plan or refer you to a specialist. A proactive approach to treatment is critical during the early stages to ensure the best outcomes. The most effective and comprehensive treatment plan will involve an interdisciplinary team of specialists who address various symptoms and affected systems. Specialists who may be useful to Pfeiffer syndrome treatment include pediatricians, neurosurgeons, plastic surgeons, ear, nose, and throat doctors, neurologists, audiologists, opthamologists, dentists, orthodontists, and speech pathologists.

One or several surgeries can be used to detach the skull bones or to prevent them from completely closing. This will allow for continued brain development and relieve the intercranial pressure caused by Pfeiffer syndrome and other forms of craniosynostosis. Corrective surgeries can also involve cranial and facial remodeling to correct the abnormal shape of the face and skull. Additional treatments may include ear surgery, dental surgery, and hand surgery to correct webbed fingers. Failure to appropriately identify and treat Pfeiffer syndrome can result in increased complications and decreased quality of life.

Contact our New York Pfeiffer Syndrome Lawyers for a Free Case Evaluation

If your child suffers from Pfeiffer syndrome, craniosynostosis, plagiocephaly, or another cranial deformity, contact Fronzuto Law Group to schedule a free initial consultation about your potential claim: 973-435-4551 (toll free at 888-409-0816). We review cases across the United States.

Pfeiffer Syndrome Resources