Birth injuries Flashcards
Birth injuries that can happen
Caput succedameum
Cephalohaematoma
Facial paralysis
Erbs palsy
Fractured clavicle
What is caput succedaneum
Fluid collecting on the scalp outside of the periosteum
How does caput succedaneum happen
Pressure to a specific area of the scalp during a prolonged or traumatic instrumental delivery
What is a cefalohaematoma
Collection of blood between skull and periosteum
How does cefalohaematoma happen
Damage to blood vessels during a traumatic, prolonged or instrumental delivery
How to distinguish between cefalohaematoma and caput succedaneum
Blood is below the periosteum so does not cross the suture lines of the skull, blood can also cause discolouration
Complications of cefalohaematoma
Risk of anaemia and jaundice due to blood which collects and breaks down releasing bilirubin
What delivery method is facial palsy associated with
Forceps delivery
What happens after a baby is born with facial palsy
Function normally returns spontaneously within a few months but if not neurosurgical input required
What is Erbs palsy
Result of injury to the C5/C6 nerve in the brachial plexus during birth
What is Erbs palsy associated with
Shoulder dystocia, traumatic or instrumental delivery, or large birth weight
What is a fractured clavicle associated with
Shoulder dystocia, traumatic or instrumental delivery, or large birth weight
