Cephalohematoma vs. Caput Succedaneum

Interestingly, the skull is not made up of one singular bone. It is actually comprised of several different plates that fuse together with time. The places of fusion are called sutures. The purpose of this separation is to allow a baby’s head to squeeze through the birth canal. However, if there is still too much force on the infant’s head, it can cause problems such as cephalohematoma and caput succedaneum.

The skull has a job of utmost importance: protecting the delicate tissue of the brain. If a baby suffers from head trauma during birth, it can result in serious, lifelong problems. If your precious newborn has been injured at the hands of a negligent doctor or nurse, you should fight back. Contact a Philadelphia birth injury attorney from Lowenthal & Abrams, P.C., today at 215-238-1130.

What is Caput Succedaneum?

Caput succedaneum is basically a swelling of the baby’s scalp. Although this has been recognized in ultrasounds before a baby’s birth, it generally occurs due to the force of the delivery process. Excess force, especially from instruments like forceps and vacuums, can damage the blood vessels in the scalp, leading to a caput succedaneum.

The Dangers of Cephalohematoma

On the other hand, a cephalohematoma occurs when the bleeding or bruising happens between the scalp and the skull itself. The membrane around the skull is called the periosteum, which connects at the suture lines. Thus, cephalohematomas should not cross suture lines. If they do, it can indicate a broken skull. Typically, cephalohematomas occur as a result of excess vacuum pressure, and they can cause a baby to develop jaundice.

Contact Us

Both cephalohematoma and caput succedaneum may indicate that your doctor or nurse did not treat your baby with the care and attention that your infant deserved. If your child has suffered from injuries due to doctor negligence, you should contact an experienced Philadelphia birth injury lawyer from Lowenthal & Abrams, P.C., at 215-238-1130 today.