The birth of a child is a life-changing event, but for some families, it can also bring unexpected challenges when injuries occur during labor or delivery. Birth injuries, often caused by complications or mistakes in the medical process, can lead to long-term consequences for the child and family. While some injuries may heal over time, others can result in permanent conditions requiring ongoing care. In certain cases, legal assistance may be necessary to address negligence and secure the resources needed for the child’s future.
Brachial Plexus Injuries
Brachial plexus injuries occur when the nerves connecting the spinal cord to the shoulder, arm, and hand are stretched or torn during delivery. This type of injury often happens in cases of shoulder dystocia, where the baby’s shoulder becomes stuck in the birth canal. The severity of the injury can range from mild stretching, which may heal over time, to more severe cases requiring surgery or therapy. Families dealing with these injuries often face extensive medical expenses, which may warrant seeking legal advice.
Cerebral Palsy
Cerebral palsy is a neurological condition that affects movement, muscle tone, and coordination. It can result from a lack of oxygen to the brain during delivery, trauma, or untreated infections in the mother or baby. While not all cases of cerebral palsy are caused by medical negligence, there are instances where errors in care, such as delayed delivery or failure to monitor fetal distress, may play a role. Identifying the cause is critical in determining whether legal action is appropriate.
Bone Fractures
Fractures during birth are often the result of excessive force used during delivery, such as improper use of tools like forceps or vacuum extractors. While many fractures heal without long-term effects, the pain and medical attention required can be significant. In some situations, these injuries occur due to preventable mistakes, making it important to assess the circumstances and determine if negligence was involved.
Brain Injuries
Brain injuries during birth can occur due to oxygen deprivation, also known as hypoxia, or physical trauma to the baby’s head. These injuries can lead to developmental delays, cognitive challenges, or other long-term conditions. Medical errors, such as failure to perform a timely cesarean section or improper use of delivery tools, are often factors in these cases. Seeking legal assistance can help families address the financial and emotional toll of these injuries.
Facial Paralysis
Facial paralysis happens when pressure on the baby’s face during delivery damages the facial nerves. This injury can result from improper use of delivery tools or excessive force. In many cases, the paralysis is temporary, but severe cases may require surgery or lead to permanent effects. Legal help may be necessary to determine if the injury was preventable and to seek compensation for the associated costs.
When To Seek Legal Guidance
When birth injuries occur, families may feel uncertain about their options. Our West Virginia birth injury lawyer can help evaluate the circumstances of the injury and determine whether legal action is appropriate. By assessing medical records and other factors, they can help families seek the support needed to care for their child.
At Hayhurst Law PLLC, we are committed to helping families affected by birth injuries take the necessary steps to secure a brighter future. If you believe your child’s injury was caused by medical negligence, we’re here to provide the guidance you need. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help you protect your family’s rights.
