Has Should Dystocia Affected Your Child’s Life?
Labor can last for hours leading up to the most joyous moment in your life – the birth of your child. When complications occur during childbirth, however, time seems to stop while at the same time speeding by. Every second is precious, and doctors must move quickly to assure the safety of both the mother and the baby. Sadly, when so much is at stake, doctors may act too quickly and sometimes negligently.
If a complication during childbirth, such as shoulder dystocia, has caused severe injury to your child, you may have a claim for medical malpractice. At Weinstein & Wisser, P.C., we truly care about you and your family. We are here to find answers, expose negligence and pursue accountability for our clients. We have been helping Connecticut families for over 35 years. We have the experience and medical knowledge to pursue your case and answer your questions.
The Lasting Effects Of Shoulder Dystocia And Erb’s Palsy
Shoulder dystocia occurs when the baby’s shoulder gets stuck during childbirth. If forced, the brachial plexus nerves (the nerves through the neck and shoulder) can be overstretched. This type of nerve damage can lead to a birth injury known as Erb’s palsy or brachial plexus palsy.
Symptoms of Erb’s palsy and brachial plexus injury can vary depending on the type of injury. However, symptoms generally surface shortly after birth and may include:
- Weakness or paralysis in the upper arm
- Inability to rotate lower arm
- Limited use of the affected hand
- Arm stays close to the body on the affected side
In certain cases where the delivery results in shoulder dystocia, doctors will have to intentionally fracture the clavicle bone to provide more flexibility to navigate the birthing canal. In other cases, doctors may choose to use assistive devices, such as a vacuum or forceps, to aid in the delivery. If they use too much force to extract the baby, though, they can damage the brachial plexus nerves.
Breech delivery or forced vaginal delivery of a large baby can also cause Erb’s palsy and other brachial plexus injuries. In both instances, a patient may have a valid claim for medical malpractice if the doctor failed to perform adequate testing to determine if a Cesarean section (c-section) birth was a better option.
At Weinstein & Wisser, P.C., we will assess every aspect of your case and explain your legal options. With decades of experience both in and out of the courtroom, you can trust our legal guidance to help you pursue the damages you and your child deserve.
Discuss Your Case
If your child has suffered due to shoulder dystocia or other complications during childbirth, our law firm has the resources and experience to investigate the incident and help you pursue a claim for medical malpractice. Contact our law firm for a free consultation with an experienced and caring medical malpractice lawyer. Call our West Hartford office at 860-881-2732 or send an email today.