Few things in life are as challenging as knowing your child suffered and continues to suffer because of someone else’s negligence. If your child sustained a serious injury during labor or delivery, it may be in your best interest to research your legal options. If the injuries were caused by medical negligence, you may be able to seek financial compensation for medical expenses and other losses.
Here are a few of the most common birth injuries:
- Bone fractures Difficult deliveries can result in a significant amount of pressure on the baby. When a medical professional fails to recognize that a vaginal delivery will be difficult, the baby may suffer bone fractures in his or her clavicle and arms.
- Brachial plexus injuries There’s a bundle of nerves that travels from the upper spine through the neck, shoulder, arm and hand. When these nerves are damaged during delivery, it can result in neuropraxia, neuroma or even an avulsion where the nerves are completely dislodged from the spine resulting in paralysis.
- Caput Succedaneum Excessive pressure during delivery can result in swelling of the scalp.
- Perinatal asphyxia When a newborn does not receive enough oxygen, it can result in serious permanent neurological damage.
- Facial paralysis Facial nerves can get damaged during a difficult labor. While some facial nerve birth injuries are temporary, others are permanent and result in a lack of control over the facial muscles.
- Cerebral palsy There is currently no cure for this birth injury. It results in muscle spasms, weak muscles and diminished motor skills.
There are many injuries that a newborn can suffer during labor if the medical staff makes a mistake or fails to act in a timely manner. Failing to diagnose potential issues, to recognize when a caesarean section is required or to use delivery equipment improperly are forms of malpractice.
If your child has suffered harm during the delivery, do not hesitate to research your legal options. Financial support may be available to compensate your family for pain and suffering, medical bills and other related damages. Contact an experienced New York personal injury lawyer to obtain more information about pursuing your legal rights. Contact Wingate, Russotti, Shapiro, Moses & Halperin, LLP at (212) 986-7353.