Parents tell of boy's bravery after skull rebuilt

The parents of a young boy from Bedfordshire have described how a rare condition meant his skull had to be taken apart and pieced back together 'like a jigsaw puzzle'.

Charlie Phipps and Amy Wilson from Shefford near Biggleswade were told their son Harry had Craniosynostosis.

It means parts of the skull fuse together too early, causing an irregular head shape. It increases pressure inside the skull, potentially affecting the growth and development of the brain.

If left untreated, it can have serious complications.

Harry had to undergo a major operation which involved taking apart the top of his skull and then piecing it back together.

The operation lasted for 7 1/2 hours and his parents have praised the team of surgeons at Great Ormond Street Hospital in London.

What is Craniosynostosis?

• Craniosynostosis is the result of the premature fusion of different sections of the skull

• The skull is unable to grow in affected areas which can increase pressure on the brain, affecting its growth and development.

• The NHS estimates it affects one in every 1,800 to 3,000 children.

• Three out of every four cases affect boys.

Source: NHS