Which of the following is the MOST common neonatal neurological injury associated with forceps delivery?
- A Facial nerve palsy ✓
- B Skull fracture
- C Intraventricular haemorrhage
- D Brachial plexus injury
Correct answer: A. Facial nerve palsy
Explanation
Forceps blades compress the facial nerve as it exits the stylomastoid foramen, making transient facial nerve palsy the most frequent neurological injury, and most cases resolve spontaneously within weeks. Skull fractures and intracranial haemorrhage are rare and usually reflect difficult or mid-cavity applications rather than routine outlet procedures. Brachial plexus injury relates to shoulder dystocia and lateral traction, not to blade placement on the face.
Reference: Williams Obstetrics, 26th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.