Craniofacial Anomalies Program

Our innovative approach

Boston Children's Hospital's research program is the most prolific at any pediatric hospital in the world. In particular, the physicians in our Craniofacial Anomalies Program are committed to engaging in basic science and translational research that shapes widespread understanding of—and treatments for—deformities of the head and facial bones. Our clinicians are searching for new insights into:

• how and why craniofacial anomalies occur
• what role genetics play in the development of certain deformities
• what surgical treatments are most effective in removing and reducing craniofacial anomalies and helping children lead healthy, fulfilling lives

Our Craniofacial Anomalies Program physicians—who are also members of the Harvard Medical School faculty—conduct ongoing research in Children’s laboratories. They also collaborate with scientists at Boston's universities, other biomedical facilities and fellow leading medical centers. 

Some of our researchers (and their individual project areas) include:

• Shelly Abramowicz, DMD, MPH, a plastic surgery researcher at Children's, who is evaluating surgical solutions for cleft lip and cleft palate and temporomandibular joint dysfunction
   
• John Meara, MD, DMD, MBA, Children's Plastic Surgeon-in-Chief, who is analyzing the genetic, phenotypic, cognitive and behavioral aspects of craniosynostosis
   
• John B. Mulliken, MD, plastic surgeon andco-director of Children's Vascular Anomalies Center , who is working to document the recurrence and progression rates of various vascular malformations that affect pediatric patients
   
• Bonnie Padwa, MD, DMD, Children's Oral Surgeon-in-Chief, who is assessing facial growth patterns in children with several types of craniofacial anomaly
   

Clinical trials at Children’s

Children’s is known for pioneering some of the most effective surgeries, diagnostic procedures and other key techniques in repairing craniofacial anomalies. A significant part of our success comes from our commitment to research—and to advancing the frontiers of pediatric medicine by conducting clinical trials.

Children’s conducts hundreds of clinical trials at any given time. Clinical trials are studies that may involve:

• evaluating the effectiveness of a new drug therapy
• testing a new diagnostic procedure or device
• examining a new treatment method for a particular disease
• taking a closer look at the causes and progression of specific conditions

While children must meet strict criteria in order to be eligible for a clinical trial, your child may be eligible to take part in a study. Before considering this option, you should be sure to:

• consult with your child’s treating physician and treatment team
• gather as much information as possible about the specific course of action outlined in the trial
• do your own research about the latest breakthroughs relating to your child’s condition

If your physician recommends that your child participate in a clinical trial, you can feel confident that the plan detailed for that study represents the best and most innovative care available. Taking part in a clinical trial at Children’s is entirely voluntary. Our team will be sure to fully address any questions you may have, and you may remove your child from the medical study at any time.

Search current and upcoming clinical trials at Children’s                            

Search the National Institutes of Health’s list of clinical trials taking place around the world