Birth Injury Lawyer
Childbirth is supposed to be a joyful experience, but sometimes things can go wrong, and the baby may suffer from birth injuries. These injuries can have serious, long-term consequences for the child and the family. In some cases, the injury is due to medical negligence, and legal action may be necessary to ensure that the child receives the compensation and care they need. This blog will examine five serious birth injuries that may call for legal assistance.
1. Cerebral Palsy
Cerebral palsy is a condition that affects a person’s coordination, movement, and muscles. It is caused by damage to the brain during or shortly after birth. The most common causes of cerebral palsy are oxygen deprivation and trauma during delivery. If a doctor fails to diagnose and treat fetal distress during labor or fails to perform a timely C-section, they may be liable for any resulting brain damage and subsequent cerebral palsy.
2. Erb’s Palsy
Erb’s palsy is a condition that affects an arm’s nerves that can result in weakness and paralysis. It is caused by damage to the brachial plexus, a network of nerves that runs from the spine to the arm. The most common cause of Erb’s palsy is shoulder dystocia, a condition where the baby’s shoulder becomes stuck during delivery. If a doctor fails to recognize the risk factors for shoulder dystocia and take appropriate measures, such as performing a C-section, they may be liable for any resulting Erb’s palsy.
3. Brachial Plexus Injury
Brachial plexus injury is another type of injury that deals damage to the arm’s nerves. It can occur during delivery when the baby’s shoulder is stretched too far or when excessive force is applied during delivery. Brachial plexus injury can cause weakness or paralysis in the arm, hand, or fingers. If a doctor fails to recognize the risk factors for brachial plexus injury, such as a large baby or a difficult delivery, they may be liable for any resulting injury.
4. Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy
Hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) is a type of brain injury that occurs when the brain doesn’t receive enough oxygen or blood flow. HIE can occur during delivery due to a variety of factors, including a prolapsed umbilical cord, placental abruption, or a ruptured uterus. HIE can cause long-term neurological damage, including cerebral palsy. If a doctor fails to diagnose and treat fetal distress during labor or fails to perform a timely C-section, they may be liable for any resulting HIE.
5. Facial Nerve Damage
Facial nerve damage can occur during delivery due to excessive pressure or force applied to the baby’s face. This can cause facial paralysis or weakness, which can affect the baby’s ability to eat, speak, or express emotions. If a doctor fails to recognize the risk factors for facial nerve damage, such as a large baby or a difficult delivery, they or the hospital they work at might be held liable for any harm caused.
Birth injuries can have serious, long-term consequences for the child and the family. If a birth injury is due to medical negligence, legal action may be necessary to ensure that the child receives the compensation and care they need. If your child has suffered a birth injury, it is essential to speak with an experienced lawyer who can evaluate your case and help you determine your legal options. Remember, you are not alone, and help is available. By working with a birth injury lawyer, you can gain compensation should something happen, something our friends at Disparti Law Group would urge you to pursue!
