Welcoming a child into the world is a momentous occasion for all Baltimore parents. However, the joy can quickly turn to concern if your baby suffers a birth injury. While some injuries during delivery are unavoidable, others are the unfortunate result of negligent medical care. In such cases, understanding the nature of these injuries is crucial for parents seeking the best for their child.
Common birth injuries from negligent care
When medical professionals fail to act with the necessary standard of care, certain birth injuries are more likely to occur:
- Hypoxia: This condition, caused by insufficient oxygen to the baby during delivery, can lead to significant long-term issues, such as cerebral palsy.
- Shoulder dystocia: This is a serious condition where the baby’s shoulders become lodged inside the mother’s pelvis, leading to nerve damage or fractures if not properly managed.
- Brachial plexus injuries: These injuries involve damage to the network of nerves that send signals from the spine to the shoulder, arm, and hand. They can result from excessive force during delivery.
- Brain injuries: These can occur due to a variety of factors, including a lack of oxygen or trauma during birth. Brain injuries can have lifelong effects on a child’s physical and cognitive abilities.
The impact of severe birth injuries
A severe birth injury can be a devastating event that affects a child for their entire life. It may necessitate ongoing medical treatment, specialized care, and adaptive equipment, all of which can be costly. Families often face emotional strain and financial burdens that can last a lifetime.
Seeking legal guidance
If your child is living with the consequences of a preventable birth injury, it may be time to seek legal advice. A knowledgeable personal injury attorney can help you understand your rights and what compensation you may be entitled to. Compensation from a medical malpractice lawsuit can help your family with medical expenses, ongoing care costs, and other damages related to the injury.