When a child is injured during labor or delivery, it could lead to permanent disability or disfigurement. Some conditions may appear similar to birth defects, but are actually preventable birth injuries due to medical negligence.
Some conditions that could arise because of a birth injury include:
Brachial Plexus Injuries
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) defines the brachial plexus as a network of nerves that controls movement and sensation in the shoulder, arm, and hand. Injuries to this network can occur if the baby’s shoulder is stretched excessively during delivery:
- Erb’s Palsy: This occurs when the upper part of the brachial plexus is damaged, often during shoulder dystocia when the baby’s shoulder becomes stuck in the birth canal. Babies with Erb’s palsy may have limited movement or paralysis in the affected arm. While some cases resolve with therapy, others may require surgical intervention.
- Klumpke’s Palsy: Damage to the lower part of the brachial plexus can cause weakness or paralysis of the hand and forearm. This type of injury may result in a “claw hand” appearance.
Our brachial plexus injury attorneys can help with these claims.
Cerebral Palsy
Cerebral palsy is a group of disorders that affect movement, posture, and muscle tone, usually caused by brain damage before, during, or shortly after birth.
Birth-related causes include:
- Prolonged labor or delivery complications leading to oxygen deprivation.
- Improper use of delivery tools such as forceps or vacuum extractors.
- Delayed response to fetal distress. Symptoms may vary from mild coordination issues to severe motor disabilities, and associated conditions like intellectual disabilities or seizures.
Cerebral palsy attorneys in Houston can help victims of birth injuries by investigating potential medical negligence, advocating for their rights, and pursuing compensation for medical care, therapy, and long-term support.
Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy (HIE)
HIE occurs when the baby’s brain is deprived of adequate oxygen and blood flow during labor or delivery. It can cause brain damage that may lead to developmental delays, cerebral palsy, or epilepsy.
Common causes include:
- Prolonged labor or uterine rupture.
- Umbilical cord complications, such as cord prolapse or a tight nuchal cord.
- Placental abruption. Prompt medical intervention can sometimes reduce the severity of long-term effects.
Our Houston Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy lawyers can help parents determine whether medical negligence played a role, hold responsible parties accountable, and pursue compensation for medical care, therapy, and other necessary support.
Clavicle Fractures
The clavicle, or collarbone, is the most commonly fractured bone during delivery. This typically occurs when the baby’s shoulders are too large for the birth canal, as in shoulder dystocia. Signs include swelling, limited arm movement, or a lump along the clavicle. Most fractures heal naturally within weeks with minimal treatment.
Cephalohematoma
Cephalohematoma is a collection of blood under the baby’s scalp, often caused by pressure during delivery. Risk factors include the use of delivery tools like vacuum extractors. While cephalohematoma usually resolves on its own within weeks, severe cases may lead to complications such as anemia or jaundice.
Caput Succedaneum
This condition involves swelling of the baby’s scalp due to prolonged pressure during labor, especially if labor is extended or vacuum-assisted. Although the swelling can look alarming, it typically resolves without medical intervention and poses no long-term risk.
Facial Nerve Damage
Facial nerve damage can occur due to pressure on the baby’s face during labor or improper use of forceps. This injury can result in asymmetrical facial movement, such as difficulty closing one eye or smiling. Mild cases may resolve naturally, while severe cases may require surgical repair or therapy.
Intracranial Hemorrhage (Brain Bleeding)
There are two main types of brain bleeds in newborns:
- Subdural Hemorrhage: Bleeding occurs between the brain and its outermost covering, often caused by trauma during delivery or improper use of delivery tools.
- Subarachnoid Hemorrhage: Bleeding in the space around the brain, common in preterm infants or those delivered after prolonged labor. Both types of hemorrhages can result in seizures, developmental delays, or long-term neurological issues if not promptly addressed.
Mothers may also experience postpartum hemorrhage, a serious condition best handled by a birth injury attorney from our firm.
Spinal Cord Injuries
Spinal cord injuries during birth are rare but severe. They can occur if excessive traction, twisting, or pressure is applied during delivery, especially in breech presentations. Such birth injuries can lead to paralysis, loss of sensation, or even death. Careful monitoring and proper delivery techniques are essential to minimize risk.
Perinatal Asphyxia
Perinatal asphyxia occurs when a baby doesn’t get enough oxygen before, during, or immediately after birth. Causes include umbilical cord compression, placental abruption, or prolonged labor. Without adequate oxygen, vital organs like the brain and heart can suffer damage, leading to developmental delays, cerebral palsy, or organ dysfunction.
Shoulder Dystocia
This delivery complication occurs when the baby’s shoulder becomes stuck behind the mother’s pelvic bone after the head is delivered. It can lead to:
- Fractures (clavicle or humerus).
- Brachial plexus injuries.
- Oxygen deprivation, potentially resulting in HIE or brain damage. Quick and skilled medical intervention is crucial to safely resolve shoulder dystocia and prevent long-term complications.
Meconium Aspiration Syndrome
This condition occurs when a baby inhales a mixture of meconium (the baby’s first stool) and amniotic fluid, which can block the airways and lead to breathing difficulties or lung infections. Severe cases may require oxygen therapy or mechanical ventilation. Timely suctioning and monitoring can prevent complications.
Birth Trauma from Delivery Tools
The improper use of delivery tools like forceps or vacuum extractors can cause injuries such as:
- Lacerations or Bruising: Cuts or bruises on the baby’s head, face, or scalp.
- Nerve Damage: Pressure on the facial nerves, leading to temporary or permanent paralysis.
- Skull Fractures: Rare but serious injuries that can lead to brain damage or intracranial hemorrhage. Proper training and careful use of these tools are essential to minimize risks.