Neonatal intracranial hemorrhage is a type of bleeding that occurs inside a newborn’s skull. The bleeding may happen within the brain tissue itself or in the spaces surrounding the brain. Because a newborn’s brain is still developing and especially delicate, bleeding in this area can lead to serious medical complications.
While some cases occur naturally, others are the result of preventable mistakes made during labor and delivery, and families in those situations may have the right to pursue a birth injury claim.
Types of Neonatal Intracranial Hemorrhage
There are several types of neonatal intracranial hemorrhages, classified based on where the bleeding occurs:
- Intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) refers to bleeding into the brain’s ventricular system, which produces cerebrospinal fluid. This is most common in premature infants.
- Subdural hemorrhage occurs when blood collects between the brain and its outer protective membrane.
- Subarachnoid hemorrhage involves bleeding between the brain and the thin tissues that surround it.
- Intracerebral hemorrhage occurs when there is bleeding directly within the brain tissue.
The signs and symptoms of a neonatal intracranial hemorrhage can vary depending on the severity and location of the bleeding.
Some infants may show subtle symptoms, while others demonstrate immediate medical distress.
Common signs of a brain bleed may include:
- Seizures
- Poor feeding or difficulty nursing
- Lethargy
- Abnormal muscle tone
- A bulging or tense soft spot
- Breathing irregularities
- Unstable vital signs
Some intracranial hemorrhages are related to prematurity or unavoidable complications; others may be associated with trauma during labor and delivery. Imaging studies may be needed to fully evaluate the extent of the bleed.
What Causes a Neonatal Intracranial Hemorrhage?
Neonatal intracranial hemorrhage can result from a variety of medical factors. Premature birth is one of the leading risk factors. Preterm infants have fragile blood vessels in the brain that are more susceptible to rupture.
Birth trauma is another significant cause of hemorrhaging. The following issues can increase the likelihood of a head injury and associated brain bleed.
- Difficult or prolonged labor
- Improper use of forceps or vacuum extractors
- Failure to respond appropriately to fetal distress
- Excessive pressure on the baby’s head during delivery
Other potential causes include oxygen deprivation, blood clotting disorders, and untreated high blood pressure during pregnancy. In certain cases, failure to properly monitor fetal heart rate or delayed emergency intervention may worsen the risk of hemorrhage.
Mild cases may require close monitoring in a neonatal intensive care unit. More severe hemorrhages may require respiratory support, surgical procedures, and other interventions. In cases involving hydrocephalus, a shunt may be required to drain excess fluid.
What Types of Compensation Are Available in Neonatal Brain Injury Cases?
Many neonatal intracranial hemorrhages can be traced back to preventable medical errors. If this describes your situation, you may be entitled to compensation through a medical malpractice claim.
A successful claim may include compensation for
- Hospitalization and neonatal intensive care
- Ongoing medical treatment
- Physical, occupational, and speech therapy
- Assistive devices
- Special education services
- Loss of future earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress experienced by the family
If your child has been diagnosed with a neonatal intracranial hemorrhage and you suspect that medical negligence may have contributed to the injury, you should consult an experienced Houston birth injury lawyer.
Contact Hampton & King today to schedule a free consultation for help understanding your rights and legal options.