What are possible complications of vacuum-assisted delivery?

Cephalohematoma and hyperbilirubinemia are significant complications associated with vacuum-assisted delivery.

Cephalohematoma occurs when the force applied during the vacuum extraction leads to bleeding between the skull and the periosteum, resulting in a localized collection of blood. This complication is prevalent in vacuum-assisted deliveries due to the mechanical suction applied to the infant's head, which can create circumstances favorable for bleeding.

Hyperbilirubinemia is another concern that arises after a cephalohematoma as the body metabolizes the accumulated blood. The breakdown of red blood cells in this hematoma can lead to increased levels of bilirubin, which may result in jaundice in the newborn. Thus, not only is cephalohematoma a direct consequence of vacuum extraction, but it can also precipitate hyperbilirubinemia due to the associated hemolysis.

Other options presented, while they might include conditions one may consider in a broader context of neonatal complications, do not directly relate to commonplace adverse outcomes from vacuum-assisted deliveries like cephalohematoma and hyperbilirubinemia do.