Cephalohematoma is a birth injury in which blood collects between an infant’s scalp and skull. The injury is caused by pressure on the head during the delivery process, particularly during prolonged labor. Ruptured blood vessels cause blood to collect, creating a soft, raised bump on the newborn’s head.
While most injuries are minor and heal on their own, some are more severe, requiring ongoing medical procedures and follow-up treatment. Our attorneys can advise you about claiming compensation if you believe your baby’s injury resulted from negligence. Contact a Philadelphia cephalohematoma lawyer at The Weitz Firm, LLC, to schedule an appointment and learn more.
Risk Factors for Birth Head Injury
Cephalohematoma risk factors include the following:
- Prolonged labor and birthing process
- Errors during assisted delivery by use of vacuum extraction or forceps
- Larger infants requiring additional assistance
- Abnormal positions in the womb
- Administering an epidural for pain relief during childbirth
- Weak or ineffective uterine contractions
- Delivery before full-term
- When the baby’s head hits the mother’s pelvic bone during labor
The condition typically causes jaundice and anemia within a few days of birth. However, more severe cases can result in skull fractures or brain trauma. Infants with a hematoma are also more susceptible to infection from bacteria entering the blood.
If your baby suffered an injury to the head during birth in Philadelphia, a lawyer can help you evaluate if your child’s injury was preventable.
Symptoms and Treatment
Understanding the symptoms and treatment options for cephalohematoma is essential for ensuring proper care and preventing complications.
Symptoms
Symptoms of cephalohematoma include a soft, fluctuant swelling on one side of the infant’s head that does not cross the skull’s suture lines. It may take hours to days before the swelling becomes apparent.
A physician can typically diagnose cephalohematoma after a physical exam. However, sometimes imaging tests are needed for confirmation. Many infants with the injury also develop jaundice because of the breakdown of red blood cells within the accumulating blood under the skull.
Treatment
While the condition often resolves on its own without treatment, more severe cases may require monitoring to prevent complications such as anemia, jaundice, or infection. In some cases, the doctor may choose to drain the hematoma. In rare cases, surgery may be necessary to repair the area and remove blood clots or veins. If the infant develops anemia, a blood transfusion may be necessary.
Whatever the details, our Philadelphia attorneys can review the specifics of your baby’s head bleed and determine if there is cause for legal action.
Discuss Your Cephalohematoma Case With Our Philadelphia Attorneys Today
Cephalohematoma is a birth injury caused by excessive pressure on an infant’s head during labor and delivery, resulting in the rupture of blood vessels under the scalp. When the birthing process is challenging, a doctor may use forceps or vacuum extractors to deliver the baby. With appropriate skill, these tools are safe. Sometimes, however, preventable errors occur that cause your baby harm. In such cases, you may be eligible to collect compensation by filing a civil action against the medical provider.
If you believe your baby’s injury was preventable, contact a qualified Philadelphia cephalohematoma lawyer today and schedule a free consultation to review your case.
