Cephalohematoma

A Birth Injury: Baltimore Cephalohematoma Lawyer Mark Kopec

Cephalohematoma is a type of bleeding that occurs beneath the periosteum, the tough membrane that covers the baby’s skull bones. Unlike caput succedaneum, another common birth injury, a cephalohematoma does not cross suture lines in the baby’s skull. This is because the bleeding occurs within the periosteum, which firmly attaches to a single bone. If your baby has been injured, you may have a birth injury medical malpractice claim and need Baltimore cephalohematoma lawyer Mark Kopec at the Kopec Law Firm.

Anatomy

To understand cephalohematoma, it’s crucial to grasp the basic anatomy of a newborn’s skull:

• Skull Bones: A newborn’s skull consists of several flat bones connected by flexible, fibrous joints called sutures. This flexibility allows the baby’s head to compress during birth, making passage through the birth canal easier.
• Periosteum: This is a tough, fibrous membrane that covers the surface of each skull bone.
• Sutures: These are the flexible joints between the skull bones, allowing for some movement and growth.

Causes

Cephalohematoma is typically caused by:

• Forceful Delivery: Forceful use of forceps or vacuum extraction during delivery can put excessive pressure on the baby’s head, leading to bleeding beneath the periosteum.
• Breech Birth: In breech births, where the baby is born feet or buttocks first, the head may be subjected to increased pressure during delivery.
• Prolonged Labor: Extended labor can increase the pressure on the baby’s head, potentially causing bleeding.

Symptoms – Baltimore Cephalohematoma Lawyer

• Swelling: A noticeable, firm, and often slightly tender swelling on the baby’s head.
• Discoloration: The skin over the swelling may appear bruised or discolored.
• Jaundice: In some cases, the breakdown of red blood cells within the hematoma can lead to jaundice, a yellowish discoloration of the skin and eyes.

Diagnosis

• Physical Examination: A pediatrician will carefully examine the baby, noting the size, location, and characteristics of the swelling.
• Observation: The doctor will monitor the baby’s overall health and development, looking for any signs of complications.

Treatment

• Observation: Most cephalohematomas resolve spontaneously within a few weeks or months as the body reabsorbs the blood.
• Monitoring: Regular checkups are essential to monitor for potential complications, such as jaundice or infection.
• Jaundice Treatment: If jaundice develops, treatment may involve phototherapy (light therapy) or, in severe cases, blood transfusions.

Baltimore cephalohematoma lawyer Mark Kopec will evaluate the treatment your child received and advise you on your birth injury.

Prognosis

In most cases, cephalohematoma resolves without any lasting complications. However, potential complications include:

• Jaundice: As mentioned earlier, the breakdown of red blood cells within the hematoma can lead to jaundice.
• Infection: Although rare, there is a slight risk of infection within the hematoma.
• Calcification: In some cases, calcium deposits may form within the hematoma, leading to a bony lump that may be visible or palpable for years.
• Developmental Delays: Severe cephalohematomas have been linked to cases of developmental delays.

Permanent Injuries and Future Needs

In rare instances, severe cephalohematomas can lead to:

• Skull Deformities: Calcification within the hematoma can sometimes lead to noticeable skull deformities.
• Neurological Complications: Severe bleeding can cause intracranial hemorrhage, which can have serious neurological consequences.

Birth Injury Medical Malpractice Claims with Baltimore Cephalohematoma Lawyer Mark Kopec

If a cephalohematoma is caused by medical negligence, such as:

• Forceful use of forceps or vacuum extraction: When used improperly, these instruments can cause significant head trauma.
• Failure to recognize or address fetal distress: Delayed intervention in cases of fetal distress can lead to prolonged labor and increased pressure on the baby’s head.
• Failure to perform a timely cesarean section: In certain situations, a cesarean section is the safest option for both mother and baby. Failure to perform a timely C-section when medically indicated can increase the risk of birth injuries.

Recoverable Damages

In successful medical malpractice claims related to cephalohematoma, damages may include:

• Medical Expenses: Past and future medical expenses related to the diagnosis, treatment, and management of the injury and any related complications.
• Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the physical and emotional pain and suffering experienced by the child.
• Lost Wages: If the injury results in long-term disabilities, compensation for lost future earnings.
• Cost of Care: Compensation for the costs of future care, such as specialized therapies, equipment, and in-home care.

Next Step: Call Baltimore Cephalohematoma Lawyer Mark Kopec

It is crucial to consult with experienced medical and legal professionals for personalized advice regarding your specific situation.

Visit our free consultation page or video. Then contact the Kopec Law Firm at 800-604-0704 to speak directly with Attorney Mark Kopec. He is a top-rated Baltimore Birth Injury lawyer. The Kopec Law Firm is in Baltimore and pursues birth injury cases throughout Maryland and Washington, D.C.