1. An encephalocele is a congenital malformation in which the structures of the central nervous system, in communication with cerebrospinal fluid pathways, herniate through a cranial defect. 2. Classification of encephaloceles depends on their anatomical location within the cranium, and the prognosis and treatment largely depend on the site of such defects. 3. Although the operation is delayed until the infant gains strength, early correction (within the first month) minimizes facial deformity, prevents further damage to brain tissue herniating through the defect, and increases the chance of normal binocular vision.