Sutures - separated

Alternative Names

Home Care

Home care is based on the diagnosis of what caused the separated sutures.

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Contact your health care provider if:

• Your child has noticeably separated sutures, bulging fontanelles, or very obvious scalp veins
• There is redness, swelling, or discharge from the area of the sutures

The health care provider will get a medical history and will do a physical examination. During the exam, the health care provider will feel (palpate) the sutures to find out how far they are separated. Also, the fontanelles and scalp veins will be examined. If there are abnormal findings, the child will have nervous system and vision tests.

The help determine the problem, the doctor may ask:

• Does the child have other problems (such as abnormal head circumference)?
• When did you first notice that the sutures were separated?
• Does it seem to be getting worse?
• What other symptoms are present?
• Is the child otherwise well? (for example, are there normal eating and activity patterns?)

The following tests may be performed:

• MRI of the head
• CT scan of the head
• Ultrasound of the head
• Infectious disease work-up, including blood cultures and possible spinal tap
• Metabolic work-up, such as blood tests to look at electrolyte levels
• Standard eye exam

Although your health care provider keeps records from routine examinations, you might find it helpful to keep your own records of your child's development. You will want to bring these records to your health care provider's attention if you notice anything unusual.