Common Birth Injuries That Can Be Caused by Medical Negligence

 Posted on January 14, 2020 in Medical Malpractice

Giving birth to a child is one of the most miraculous experiences that a person can have. Sadly, some births do not go as planned. Research shows that about seven out of every 1000 births results in a birth injury. Some of these birth injuries are unavoidable. Others, however, are the result of negligence or wrongdoing by a doctor, nurse, or another medical professional. When medical malpractice causes an infant to be seriously injured, the results can be devastating.

Babies With Certain Risk Factors Are Most Likely to Be Injured During Birth

Infants are more likely to be injured during birth when medical devices such as a vacuum extractor or forceps are used. Some of these injuries are only superficial cuts and bruises but others, such as intracranial hemorrhages, can cause serious, long-term damage. Babies are also more likely to suffer injury if they:

• Are born prematurely
• Are very large
• Have a breech presentation
• Experience excessive traction or rotation during delivery

However, birth injuries can still occur even when no risk factors are present.

Infant Injuries During Birth

When there are complications during the birthing process, an infant may suffer an orthopedic injury. Some of the most common types of orthopedic injuries include brachial plexus injury (also called Erb’s Palsy), clavicle fracture, femur fracture, and growth plate fracture. When an infant does not receive enough oxygen during birth, he or she may develop perinatal asphyxia or hypoxia. This lack of oxygen can lead to cerebral palsy, hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE), and other conditions that cause permanent neurologic damage. Brain and spinal cord injuries are also possible during the birthing process.

Seeking Compensation for A Birth Injury Caused by Medical Negligence

Doctors and other medical professionals have a duty to provide proficient medical care. When a doctor misuses medical devices, fails to properly monitor the infant and mother, delays delivery, does not perform a necessary C-section, or otherwise fails to uphold his or her duty, this may be considered medical negligence. Through a medical malpractice claim, a family can pursue compensation for hospital bills, the costs associated with ongoing medical care and physical therapy, lost wages, mobility equipment, and more.  

Contact a Joliet Birth Injury Lawyer

When an infant is injured during birth, the family may incur staggering medical bills and future costs. If you have reason to believe that your child’s birth injury was caused by medical negligence, speak with an experienced Illinois medical malpractice attorney right away. Schwartz Injury Law knows the devastation birth injuries can cause a family, and we are prepared to help you get the compensation you need. Call our office at 815-723-7300 today and schedule a free consultation to discuss your options.

Sources:

https://www.rightdiagnosis.com/b/birth_injury/stats.htm

https://www.healthline.com/health/pregnancy/risks-vacuum-assisted-delivery#retinal-hemorrhage