At Pediatric Neurosurgeons of New Jersey, Dr. Tim Vogel uses advanced technologies like the Starscanner® to evaluate abnormalities in infant head shape with precision. This FDA-cleared, non-invasive 3D laser scanning system captures detailed cranial measurements in under two seconds, helping diagnose cranial asymmetry, monitor growth, and guide custom helmet therapy for conditions like plagiocephaly and craniosynostosis.
The Technology
Starscanner is an advanced 3D cranial imaging system used to evaluate head shape abnormalities in infants and children. At Pediatric Neurosurgeons of New Jersey, Dr. Vogel uses this FDA-cleared technology to capture highly accurate measurements of a child’s head without radiation, sedation, or physical discomfort. The system is commonly used to assess conditions like plagiocephaly, brachycephaly, scaphocephaly, and craniosynostosis. During the scan, your child is briefly positioned inside the scanner while a safe, non-invasive laser creates a detailed 3D model of the head in less than two seconds. The system measures cranial symmetry, skull proportions, and growth patterns with precision. These detailed images help Dr. Vogel diagnose cranial conditions, monitor head growth, and develop personalized treatment plans, including custom cranial helmet therapy when appropriate.
The Conditions Identified:
- Plagiocephaly: A condition known as “flat head syndrome,” where one area of your baby’s head becomes flattened. Starscanner creates detailed 3D images that help Dr. Vogel evaluate asymmetry and determine the severity of the condition.
- Brachycephaly: A condition where the back of the skull becomes disproportionately wide and flat. The Starscanner measures cranial width, symmetry, and skull proportions to monitor abnormal growth patterns.
- Scaphocephaly: A long, narrow head shape often associated with sagittal craniosynostosis. Starscanner helps assess skull elongation and provides precise measurements to guide treatment planning.
- Craniosynostosis: A condition in which one or more skull sutures fuse too early, affecting normal skull and brain growth. Starscanner helps Dr. Vogel evaluate cranial shape abnormalities and monitor head growth before and after treatment.
- Facial asymmetry: Uneven facial development that may occur alongside cranial deformities. The Starscanner captures facial contours and proportions to help identify subtle imbalances and support comprehensive craniofacial care.
- Post-surgical cranial changes: After minimally invasive craniosynostosis surgery or helmet therapy, Starscanner can track skull remodeling progress over time using highly accurate comparative scans.
The Benefits
Capture Highly Accurate Measurements
Starscanner creates 3D images of your child’s head with accuracy down to fractions of a millimeter. These measurements help Dr. Vogel identify cranial abnormalities, evaluate severity, and develop treatment plans based on objective data rather than visual estimation alone.
Complete Scans in Seconds
The scanning process takes less than two seconds to complete, making it ideal for infants and young children who may struggle to remain still. Faster scans reduce stress, minimize movement, and create a more comfortable experience for both children and parents.
Avoid Radiation and Discomfort
Starscanner uses safe, non-invasive lasers that do not expose your child to radiation or require sedation. The process is painless and gentle, designed specifically for infants, allowing Dr. Vogel to evaluate cranial development while avoiding unnecessary imaging risks.
Monitor Growth and Treatment Progress
The system stores detailed scan data that can be compared over time to track skull growth and treatment outcomes. This allows Dr. Vogel to monitor improvements during helmet therapy or after surgery and make precise adjustments throughout your child’s care journey.
Schedule Your Consultation
Dr. Tim Vogel is a double board-certified pediatric neurosurgeon and nationally recognized craniofacial specialist dedicated to advanced, compassionate care for children with complex neurological and cranial conditions. Trained at Princeton University, Columbia University, and Washington University in St. Louis, Dr. Vogel has exceptional expertise in minimally invasive pediatric neurosurgery and craniosynostosis treatment. If you’re concerned about your child’s head shape or development, schedule a consultation today.
