Current status: Answered by Neil Gray on 25 September 2025
To ask the Scottish Government, further to the answer to question S6W-00259 by Humza Yousaf on 14 June 2021, whether it will (a) provide an update on progress made to develop endoscope-assisted surgery for craniosynostosis in the last five years, and (b) review the current referral pathway to Great Ormond Street Hospital, in light of reported ongoing concerns that delays may prevent access to treatment within the critical window for children with skull deformities.
Since the question, S6W-00259, was answered in 2021, the Scottish National Centre for Craniofacial Surgery for Children & Young People in Glasgow has introduced craniofacial endoscopic strip craniectomy with helmet therapy.
Endoscopic strip craniectomy (ESC) is a minimally invasive surgical procedure offered as a treatment choice for children who meet specific clinical criteria presenting to the craniofacial clinic under 16 weeks of age. It is estimated that approximately 20 endoscopic procedures will be undertaken in Glasgow per year.
As a result of the introduction of ESC in Glasgow, NHS National Services Scotland’s National Services Directorate, who commission the craniofacial service, have no plans to review the pathway to Great Ormond Street Hospital for craniofacial therapy.
The referral pathway guidance was last revised in 2023, reflecting the changing landscape and improving specialist expertise within NHS Scotland, and the Scottish National Centre’s understanding of the need to operate within the critical window. This guidance is next due for review in July 2026.