THERAPIES AND DEFORMITIES IN CRANIOFACIAL DEVELOPMENT IN PATIENTS EXPOSED TO THE ZIKA VIRUS

There are several craniofacial alterations described in children with microcephaly associated with Congenital Zika Syndrome (CZS). However, the effects of CZS on craniofacial development and acquired therapies in infected children are still unknown. The aim of the study was to evaluate the main defects in craniofacial development and their relationship with CZS, as well as therapies inspired by joint and neuromuscular stimuli in patients attended by the Pediatric Service of the University Hospital. Patients were evaluated, and followed by Physiotherapy, Osteopathy and Maxillofacial Surgery. The joint care for the treatments was carried out by Osteopathy and Maxillofacial Surgery. The stimuli used in the therapies were based on the osteoarticular and neuromuscular system. Between the years 2022 and 2023, a total of 156 patients were treated and of these, 18 provided effective continuity of care. Of the patients seen, it was mainly observed alterations in craniofacial growth 5 (28%), nuchal shortening and cervical instability 3 (17%), difficulty swallowing and chewing 4 (22%), maxillary and palatal atrophy 2 (11%), patient without alterations 4 (22%). After the osteopathic and physiotherapy treatments, a qualitative improvement was observed, mainly in relation to cervical stability and nuchal control, in addition to the positive general condition of the patients. The follow-up of these patients, focusing on osteopathic practices, was fundamental for the improvement in the craniofacial and neck development, which could subsequently reduce the need of craniofacial surgeries. Despite this, we emphasize that there is still no consensus on new therapies and the relationship between CZS and craniofacial deformities.