Fetal parietal bone fracture in late 3rd trimester secondary to traffic accident with improper seatbelt use: a case report

Approximately half of the women in developed countries drive motor vehicles and the consequences of road traffic-related injuries involving pregnant women can be severe. This case report describes a rare injury of a parietal bone fracture in a fetus resulting from improper seatbelt use during a motor vehicle accident. A 36-year-old woman at 35 weeks of gestation was involved in a traffic accident while seated in the front seat wearing a seatbelt, but in an improper way for pregnant women. Transabdominal ultrasonography revealed a displaced fracture of the fetus's right parietal bone with an overlying scalp hematoma. Despite initial conservative management, persistent fetal tachycardia and decelerations necessitated an emergency cesarean delivery resulting in live birth. This case underscores the importance of correct three-point seatbelt usage during pregnancy to prevent maternal and fetal injuries.