Fontana Posterior [F. Posterior, Pna; F. occipitalis (Minor), Bna; F. Minor, Jna; Syn.: P. Occipital, P. Small]

The posterior fontanelle (F. Posterior) is a small area on the back of the newborn's head that closes during intrauterine life. It is located between the occipital and parietal bones and measures about 1.5-2.5 cm.

The posterior fontanelle performs several functions:

Providing space for skull growth - it allows the skull to grow during fetal life when the bones are still soft.

Brain Protection - The anterior fontanel protects the brain from injury and shock that may occur during childbirth.

Temperature control - through the posterior fontanelle, heat exchanges between the body and the environment, which helps regulate body temperature.

Closure of the posterior fontanelle occurs at the end of intrauterine life or during the first few weeks after birth. This occurs because the bones of the skull become harder and prevent the fontanel from remaining open.

However, if the closure of the posterior fontanel is delayed, it may be a sign of health problems. For example, delayed closure of the posterior fontanelle may indicate the presence of hydrocephalus, a condition in which the brain becomes enlarged due to fluid accumulation.

Overall, the posterior fontanel plays an important role in a child's brain development and health. Therefore, it is important to monitor its closure and consult a doctor if this process is delayed.

The posterior fontanelle, also known as the occipital fontanelle or lesser fontanel, is one of the seven paired fontanelles of the human skull, which is located between the occipital and parietal bones, as well as the parietal and frontal parts of the head. It is a fibrous tissue that is filled with blood and provides a flexible connection between the two bony surfaces of the skull.

Functional significance of the posterior fontanel

Functionally, the posterior fontanelle is vital for the baby in the first months of life. It serves to pass through the skull during the growth and development of the head, provides space for the enlargement of the head, and also improves the mobility of the skull and, accordingly, the brain. The anterior fontanel also plays an important role in the formation of thinking in children, allowing the brain to receive the necessary oxygen and nutrients throughout the brain.

The closure of the posterior fontanelle occurs even before birth, when the child is in the womb. This process begins around 36 weeks of pregnancy and is completed by the beginning of the baby's first month of life. This is due to the fact that the closure of the fontanel is caused by accelerated growth of the child’s skull, and not by the biological process of tissue aging.

Clinical significance

Unwelcome or inconsistent closure of the posterior fontanel can lead to various health problems in the newborn. For example, it may be overly mobile or unstable, which can place additional stress on the skull and lead to traumatic brain injury. In addition, such children may develop an abnormal head tilt in the future, which leads to impaired development of the spine and displacement of internal organs.

However, if the parent pays attention to possible problems and consults a doctor in time, the closure of the posterior fontanelle can be corrected to avoid the development of possible complications. This may require the use of bandages and additional pillows that correct head tilts, as well as dynamic monitoring of the child’s development and his reaction to the environment.

In conclusion, the posterior fontanel becomes an important factor in the development and growth of the infant's brain. Its closure usually occurs before the baby is born, but may not close properly depending on external influences. If you have any additional questions regarding the fontanel and its closure, it is recommended to contact your pediatrician