1. The Fetal/Infant Skull
Ms Clark
PVMHS

2. Fontanels
As we grow, bone replaces cartilage and fibrous membranes in many bones of our body
This includes fontanels in an infant’s skull
Fontanel - membrane-covered spot where bone formation is not yet complete – found between cranial bones
Allow the skull to be compressed during childbirth

3. Fontanels
Fontanels close between 2-24 months after birth (each one varies)
Eventually become sutures after ossification

4. Anterior Fontanel
Located between the two parietal bones and the frontal bone
The “soft spot” on top of an infant’s head

5. Posterior Fontanel
Between two parietal bones and occipital bone

6. Anterolateral Fontanel
On each side of the skull between frontal, parietal, temporal, and sphenoid bone

7. Posterolateral Fontanel
On each side of skull between parietal, occipital, and temporal bone