Caput Succedaneum

Published on 30/05/2015 by admin

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Last modified 30/05/2015

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Chapter 200 Caput Succedaneum

INTRODUCTION

Description: Caput succedaneum is a characteristic change in the shape of the fetal head that results from the forces of labor acting on the fetal head and the surrounding tissues. This swelling is generally located on the portion of the fetal scalp that was directly under the cervical os.

Prevalence: Typical of most vaginal vertex births; similar swellings on the presenting part are formed with other birth presentations.

Predominant Age: Birth.

Genetics: No genetic pattern.

ETIOLOGY AND PATHOGENESIS

Causes: Pressure by the birth canal and surrounding tissues on the fetal head as it enters and traverses the lower vaginal canal.

Risk Factors: Fetal macrosomia, prolonged labor, contracted maternal pelvis, prolonged maternal expulsive effort (pushing).

CLINICAL CHARACTERISTICS

Signs and Symptoms

• Symmetric swelling of the fetal scalp in a location compatible with that which was directly under the cervical os (upper posterior portion over the right parietal bone in left occiput transverse labors, over the corresponding portion of the left parietal bone in right occiput transverse labors)

• Generally with diffuse edges and only a few millimeters in thickness; greater in obstructed or prolonged labors. The periosteal edges provide a sharp demarcation to a cephalohematoma that is not present in caput succedaneum. In addition, cephalohematomas do not cross suture lines.

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