Birth injuries can be a traumatic experience for any parent. There are many different complications that can arise during labor and delivery. Some of the most common include:
- Brachial plexus injuries (Erb’s Palsy): Damage to the nerves that control the arms and hands, often due to excessive pulling during delivery.
- Cerebral palsy: A condition that affects movement and motor skills, which can be caused by brain damage before or during birth.
- Fractures: Particularly clavicle or collarbone fractures, which may happen during difficult or breech deliveries.
- Perinatal asphyxia: The result of a lack of oxygen during the labor and delivery the process that can lead to to neurological damage.
Treating and managing birth injuries can be costly and often requires long-term care strategies. The financial burden and care needs can vary widely depending on the severity and type of injury but often include the immediate medical expenses for initial hospital care, surgeries, and immediate treatments, as well as the likelihood of future needs, which may include ongoing therapy, special education services, and possibly lifelong care.
Was the injury the result of medical negligence?
In some cases, birth injuries result directly from medical negligence. Examples can include:
- Failure to monitor fetal distress: Ignoring signs of fetal distress can lead to delayed actions, such as emergency C-sections, resulting in preventable injuries.
- Improper use of delivery tools: Misuse or excessive use of forceps or vacuum extractors can cause serious physical injuries to the newborn.
- Inadequate response to complications: Failing to adequately address complications like tangled umbilical cords or breech births can lead to severe outcomes.
For parents in Georgia dealing with the aftermath of a birth injury, it is important to understand both the immediate and long-term implications of these injuries. Knowing the common types of injuries, the associated costs, and recognizing potential medical negligence are important steps in advocating for your child’s needs and rights. Should you suspect negligence, you may be able to pursue compensation to help cover these expenses through a medical malpractice claim. An attorney experienced in this niche area of law can review your case and discuss your options.