Skull Fractures and Head Trauma Birth Injuries

When a baby suffers a skull fracture or head trauma during birth, the consequences can be devastating — both immediately and for years to come. At Hoffer & Sheremet, PLC, our birth injury lawyers help families in Michigan uncover what happened, hold negligent medical providers accountable, and secure compensation for their child’s care.

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What Is a Skull Fracture in a Newborn?

A skull fracture is a break in one or more of the bones of a baby’s skull. These fractures can occur when excessive force is applied to the baby’s head during delivery. Some are minor and heal on their own, while others lead to bleeding, brain injury, or long-term neurological problems.

Skull fractures in newborns are often caused by:

Prolonged or difficult labor (especially with a large baby or a small maternal pelvis)
Use of delivery instruments such as forceps or vacuum extractors
Excessive traction or pressure applied by the delivering provider
Failure to recognize or respond to fetal distress
Shoulder dystocia or breech presentations that make delivery more traumatic

Types of Skull Fractures in Newborns

Not all fractures are the same. Some are more serious and require immediate medical intervention.

Linear skull fractures – The most common type; a simple crack in the skull.
Depressed skull fractures (“ping-pong” fractures) – The bone is pushed inward, often from direct pressure during birth.
Basilar skull fractures – A break at the base of the skull, often associated with severe trauma and a high risk of complications.
Diastatic fractures – Occur along suture lines, where the bones of the skull meet.

Signs of Skull Fractures and Head Trauma in Newborns

Skull fractures can be difficult to detect immediately. Warning signs include:

Swelling or bruising on the scalp
Abnormal head shape or a noticeable indentation
Seizures or abnormal movements
Lethargy, irritability, or poor feeding
Bleeding from the nose or ears

If you notice any of these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.

How Are Skull Fractures Diagnosed and Treated?

Diagnosis often requires:

Physical examination
Imaging studies such as CT scans or MRI
Neurological assessment

Treatment may range from observation for minor fractures to surgical intervention for depressed or complicated fractures. Early detection and management are crucial to preventing long-term damage.

Long-Term Consequences of Birth-Related Head Trauma

While some skull fractures heal with no lasting effects, head trauma during birth can lead to serious complications, such as:

Intracranial hemorrhage (bleeding in the brain)
Cerebral palsy
Seizure disorders
Cognitive and developmental delays
Hearing or vision loss

These conditions often require lifelong medical care, therapy, and educational support.

Was My Baby’s Skull Fracture Preventable?

In many cases, yes. While some complications are unavoidable, many birth-related head injuries are caused by medical negligence. This may include:

Improper use of forceps or vacuum extractors
Failure to perform a timely C-section
Mismanagement of prolonged or difficult labor
Ignoring fetal distress or abnormal presentations

If medical providers fail to meet the standard of care, they can be held legally accountable for the harm caused.

How Our Birth Injury Lawyers Can Help

At Hoffer & Sheremet, PLC, we focus exclusively on medical malpractice and birth injury cases. Our team:

Investigates medical records with the help of top experts
Determines whether your baby’s injury was preventable
Calculates the cost of lifelong care and support
Pursues full compensation for your family

We have a proven track record of success in holding hospitals and providers accountable for birth injuries.

Frequently Asked Questions

How common are skull fractures during delivery?
While relatively uncommon, they are more likely in difficult deliveries or when instruments like forceps or vacuums are used.

Does a skull fracture mean my baby will have brain damage?
Not always. Some fractures heal without long-term consequences, but others cause serious neurological issues.

Can I sue if my baby suffered a skull fracture at birth?
If medical negligence caused or contributed to your child’s injury, you may have a claim for compensation.