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A caput succedaneum is a type of birth injury which is caused by the scalp of the unborn child's occiput (back part of the skull) being pushed against the cervix.
The effects of caput succedaneum can be traumatic to a newborn. It may result in edema (a type of swelling caused by a build up of fluid in tissue and cavities).
The swelling will usually extend to across the midline of the scalp and will be soft and sometimes discoloured because of bleeding. It may also "mold" the head, causing it to become misshapen.
In the majority of cases the bruising and swelling will heal naturally and without complication. However, in some cases it may cause jaundice through the accumulation of bilirubin, following bleeding in the area of swelling.
Sometimes doctors, midwives and obstetric staff may notice the condition in a prenatal ultrasound scan. This situation is most likely in women whose waters have ruptured pre-term, resulting in the foetus losing the soft cushion of the amniotic sac.
Other children at risk of suffering the injury include those who suffer mismanaged vacuum extraction births.
It may also be caused, without any apparent risk factors, by the dilating cervix during birth.
As noted, the majority of newborns who experience this injury will recover after a few days, with the scalp regaining its normal contour.
All babies who suffer this injury should be monitored closely in the days following birth. In the event that symptoms of jaundice become apparent, prompt and effective treatment should be carried out.
In the event that such treatment proves inadequate, newborns risk having their organ function damaged and the families involved may consider pursuing a negligent birth compensation claim.
Claim compensation for birth injury
If you have suffered the pain and distress of mismanaged, inadequate or negligent maternity and obstetric care, you may be entitled to claim compensation for the suffering of you and your child and for any expenses caused by injury.
We are proud of the service provided by our whole team, from our legal advisors to our medical negligence lawyers and have forged an outstanding success rate, settling claims in our clients favour and ensuring 100 percent compensation; we never take a cut.
We work under the governance of the Solicitors Regulation Authority and our individual solicitors hold many professional accreditations, such as those provided by the Law Society's Clinical Negligence Accreditation Scheme.
To find out more about whether we may be able to help you secure your family's rights, whether for caput succedaneum or another birth injury, echat, complete an online claim form or call an advisor now, on 0800 10 757 95
