Which neonatal injury is characteristically MORE common after forceps delivery than after vacuum-assisted delivery?
- A Facial nerve palsy ✓
- B Retinal hemorrhage
- C Subgaleal hemorrhage
- D Cephalhematoma
Correct answer: A. Facial nerve palsy
Explanation
Forceps blades compress the facial nerve as it exits the stylomastoid foramen, making unilateral facial nerve palsy a typically forceps-associated injury that usually resolves within weeks. Cephalhematoma and retinal hemorrhage are more frequent with vacuum extraction, and subgaleal hemorrhage is the feared vacuum complication due to traction tearing emissary veins. This distinction between instrument-specific injuries is repeatedly examined.
Reference: Williams Obstetrics, 26th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.