C-Section Childbirth Injuries and Malpractice in Michigan
Childbirth is a celebration of new life. However, things could go awry in the middle of the process leading to birth injuries, which can be traumatic to the mother and the child, and the rest of the family. Cesarean delivery is a surgical procedure that is performed to deliver a baby. The baby, instead of being delivered through the vaginal canal, is delivered through an incision in the mother’s abdomen and uterus. C-sections are usually planned ahead of time, especially if the mother has already experienced some complications during her pregnancy, or has had a C-section delivery before.
Why C-Sections Are Performed at Childbirth
There are many reasons that a C-section is called during labor. A doctor or healthcare provider may recommend a C-section for the following reasons:
Labor is not progressing as expected.
The baby is in distress, or the baby’s heartbeat has weakened.
The baby is not in a normal position (breech or transverse).
The mother is carrying twins or more.
The placenta covers the opening.
The mother has a severe medical condition.
There is a physical obstruction in the birth canal.
The mother had a previous C-section.
C-sections are chosen mainly to protect both mother and child. Once it is decided, all precautions are taken to keep both mother and baby safe and healthy. However, if mistakes and carelessness are committed during the operation, it can put the lives of both mother and baby at considerable risk.
What are Common Caesarean Section Injuries?
All surgeries carry risk. The trauma that comes from the incision and the use of anesthesia can cause complications. There are times, however, that otherwise preventable injuries are caused by errors and negligence of the medical staff. The common injuries to the infants include:
Fetal Lacerations
Cuts and nicks are common injuries to the newborn caused by the incision performed. It can bring trauma to the newborn and can result in blood loss if severe. When health care providers do not perform the operation properly and diligently, it can lead in lacerations on the newborn. Severe lacerations can result in other health conditions, such as Erb’s Palsy, cervical cord injuries, and Klumpke’s Palsy.
Broken Bones
When moved incorrectly or too hastily, the baby may suffer from fractures during the delivery.
What are the Consequences of a Delayed C-Section?
Sometimes, surgeons call for a Cesarean operation a little too late, even when the warning signs are already there. Calling for a C-section on time is vital, as a delayed one can have lasting effects on the mother and the baby. A delayed C-section can cause many possible injuries, sometimes even death.
The common consequences of a delayed C-Section to the infant include the following:
It is therefore crucial that both mother and child are continuously monitored so that the surgeon can quickly decide if a C-section is needed or not. It is a standard operating procedure to observe and interpret the fetal heart rate to accurately determine if the baby is in distress or not. Labor and child delivery units must have the facility and capacity to perform a C-section quickly as needed. Hospitals must have C-section equipment and must have able and experienced medical staff.
Do Not Hesitate to Seek Help if Your Baby was Injured during a Cesarean Surgery
Medical errors during C-section can result in injuries to the infant, lasting damage, and sometimes, even death of the infant. A common and supposedly low-risk procedure can cause unspeakable damage if not performed correctly. Delay in C-section can also result in the same damage and injuries. You are eligible to receive financial compensation for the heartbreak, loss, or damage that you have gone through because of the negligence of the medical staff. You may receive compensation for the following:
Medical costs
Pain and suffering
Medical care
Lost wages
Disability
Contact The Clark Law Office Immediately if Your Child Was Injured During a C-Section
We at The Clark Law Office are committed to helping you get the support and compensation that is due to you. The heartbreak and pain that a disastrous C-section brings can be devastating to the family and can have permanent effects on the baby. Our team of experienced and compassionate lawyers will help you through this challenging and stressful time. Contact The Clark Law Office immediately at +1 (517) 347-6900 or e-mail info@theclarklawoffice.com for inquiries.