Fetal Skull

Question 1

3 divisions of the fetal skull

Answer 1

Vault - from orbital ridges to the nape of the neck. Moulding may occur to this part during labour
Base - unites with the face. Unable to mould
Face - 14 bones. Unable to mould

Question 2

Diameters of the fetal skull

Answer 2

suboccipitofrontal 10cm
submentobregmatic 9.5cm
mentovertical 13.5cm
suboccipitobregmatic 9.5cm
submentovertical 11cm
occipitofrontal 11.5cm

Question 3

Fetal Brain

Answer 3

Cerebrum - responsible for higher function eg, touch, vision, hearing, speech, emotion
Cerebellum - voluntary movements eg, balance coordination, speech
Pons Varolii - communication between the spina cord and the cerebrum. Control of hearing, breathing, taste
Medulla Oblongata - autonomic functions eg, breathing, heart rate, blood pressure

Question 4

Trauma to fetal skull

Answer 4

Caput Succedaneum - subcutaneous collection of fluid with poorly defined margins. Present at birth. crosses suture lines. lasts of up 48 hours

Cephalohaematoma - bleeding between periosteum and skull bones. over parietal bones. doesn’t cross suture lines. appears 12-72 hours after delivery. may contribute to jaundice