While premature births have been linked to numerous health complications, a new study reveals that babies born late pre-term – from 32 to 36 weeks – may suffer brain injuries as well that could lead to long-term developmental problems.
In many instances, it may not be possible to prevent a premature birth, however other times a doctor or other health care provider can take actions to help prevent preterm deliveries. Known factors exist that a doctor can look for to predict a premature baby. Failing to resolves these factors through preventative action, or misdiagnosing the symptoms can lead to an unnecessary premature birth.
Further, following the delivery of a preterm baby, doctors can take specific actions to eliminate or limit the suffering of a newborn and improve the baby's chances for a healthy outcome.
If you believe your child suffered injury or harm as the result of an unnecessary premature birth, consulting with an experienced California birth injury lawyer is important to begin an investigation into the factors affecting your situation and to determine your next steps.
According to the new study published in the journal Radiology, infants born just a few weeks preterm may have smaller brains and other brain abnormalities. Previous studies had focused primarily on those born substantially preterm, less than 32 weeks into gestation at birth.
In the new study, researchers performed magnetic resonance imaging that compared full-term babies' brains with those of infants born between 4 and 8 weeks early.
The findings suggested that preterm births may disrupt the expected trajectory of brain growth, which is vital for normal brain function.
The researchers are hoping to learn more about the impact that moderate to late preterm birth has on brain fucntion in order to test different treatments designed to improve brain function and long-term outcome in these infants. Such finding places greater emphasis on the importance of preventing pre-term where possible.
For more information about preterm birth brain injuries, or if you believe your child has suffered harm as the result of an unnecessary preterm birth, please contact our skilled California birth injury attorneys immediately for a confidential consultation.