Cranial sutures: a multidisciplinary review

Introduction: Progress in cranial suture research is shaping our current understanding of the topic; however, emphasis has been placed on individual contributing components rather than the cranial sutural system as a whole. Improving our holistic view helps further guide clinicians who treat cranial sutural abnormalities as well as researchers who study them. Materials and methods: Information from anatomy, anthropology, surgery, and computed modeling was integrated to provide a perspective to interpret suture formation and variability within the cranial functional and structural system. Results: Evidence from experimental settings, simulations, and evolution suggest a multifactorial morphogenetic process associated with functions and morphology of the sutures. Despite molecular influences, the biomechanical cranial environment has a main role in both the ontogenetic and phylogenetic suture dynamics. Conclusions: Furthering our holistic understanding of the intricate cranial sutural system promises to expand our knowledge and enhance our ability to treat associated anomalies.