Early neurosurgery intervention helps Pensacola infant with a skull condition

When Oryan was four months old, his pediatrician noticed a head shape abnormality. Concerned, the pediatrician referred he and his mother, Cathy, to Dr. Augustus Perez, a pediatric neurosurgeon at Ascension Sacred Heart in Pensacola, Florida.

When Oryan was six months old, Cathy took him to see Dr. Perez. During the examination, Dr. Perez discovered that two bones in Oryan’s forehead had fused together too soon—a condition called craniosynostosis. If left untreated, it could alter the shape of his skull and potentially lead to developmental and neurological challenges. Cathy felt nervous about the diagnosis, but Dr. Perez reassured her. "Craniosynostosis can sound overwhelming to parents," he explained, "but with early intervention, we can correct it and give children the best chance for healthy growth and development."

The family and care team that included nurse Alecia, decided to move forward with cranial reconstruction surgery. Cathy remembers how helpful Alecia, a nurse at the clinic, was in ensuring they were fully prepared for their neurosurgery appointments. Alecia also adjusted their schedule so they could see additional providers when needed.

With the benefit of a comprehensive multi-disciplinary craniofacial surgery team, the procedure included use of the latest knowledge, techniques, and tools to ensure Oryan's skull would grow and form properly. Cathy remembers how Dr. Perez always went the extra mile to ensure Oryan received the best care. “Dr. Perez was amazing,” she said. “He was calm, patient, and always took extra steps to make sure our son was well taken care of.”

Today, Oryan is an active, happy two-year-old who loves reading and enjoying life to the fullest. His surgery was a success, and Cathy remains incredibly grateful for the expert care they received. “I’m so thankful for everything Dr. Perez did,” she reflected. “He gave our son the chance to live a healthy, happy life.”

Neurosurgeon, Gus Perez, MD, has the specialized expertise to care for the growing brains and nervous systems of children. As the only pediatric neurosurgery program in Northwest Florida, our team collaborates with pediatric radiologists, anesthesiologists, pharmacists, and more at the Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Ascension Sacred Heart. We provide compassionate, personalized care that helps children and parents feel at ease.

Dr. Perez is accepting new patients. Learn more here.