According to statistics, more than 2300 birth injuries occur each month. Several factors may cause difficulties during the delivery process. However, many times these causes are preventable and may be attributed to medical malpractice.
Some common types of birth injuries include:
- Brachial plexus injuries. Brachial plexus injuries refer to nerve damage affecting the base of the neck to the upper arms and shoulders. It is typically attributable to the application of too much pressure with forceps or vacuum extraction during the delivery of a baby.
- Hypoxia/Oxygen Deprivation. One of the reasons for fetal distress may be oxygen deprivation – and the failure to correct this situation promptly may lead to serious birth injuries such as cerebral palsy. Cerebral palsy is a permanent condition that often requires a lifetime of costly medical care and rehabilitation. Oxygen deprivation may occur as the result of umbilical cord abnormalities, or the cord becoming wrapped around the infant's neck.
- Brain Injuries. Similarly infants may suffer brain injuries as the result of a lack of oxygen during the delivery process that may occur as the result of improper delivery methods, labor and delivery difficulties and failure to properly monitor the baby's heart rate.
When these injuries occur as the result of a doctor, hospital or other health care professional's negligence, it may be possible to file a medical malpractice lawsuit to recover damages that can help pay for a lifetime a medical costs.
For more information or if you believe your child has suffered a birth injury – please contact the experienced California birth injury attorneys at Bostwick & Peterson, LLP for an immediate consultation.