News & Insights

When expectant parents eagerly await the arrival of their little ones, they may not consider the many birth injuries that can occur during labor and delivery. Sometimes, a birth injury is the result of medical malpractice near Baltimore. If your child was diagnosed with a birth injury, medical malpractice lawyers can help you hold negligent healthcare providers accountable.

Brachial Plexus Injuries

Brachial plexus injuries involve damage to the bundle of nerves in the shoulder area. This bundle of nerves, known as the brachial plexus, is responsible for providing the shoulder, arm, wrist, and hand with sensation and movement. This type of birth injury can range from mild to severe. Some parents will see their child’s symptoms resolve within a matter of months, while other children may suffer from permanent paralysis. Often, brachial plexus injuries are caused by forceful and excessive pulling on the baby during labor and delivery.

Femur Fractures

If your baby was diagnosed with a fractured femur, it means that one of his or her thighbones was broken. A newborn’s bones are much more fragile than the bones of an adult. A fracture can occur if the leg is twisted during the delivery. Babies with femur fractures can suffer from significant pain, particularly during diaper changings. Typically, newborns with this type of birth injury must wear Pavlik harnesses until the bone has healed.

Cerebral Palsy

Cerebral palsy is an umbrella diagnosis for a group of movement disorders. Cerebral palsy occurs when the developing brain of a baby sustains damage. Sometimes, it may be the result of a birth injury. During labor, medical staff should monitor the fetal heartrate monitor for signs of fetal distress. If fetal distress is observed, an emergency C-section may be called for. If this fails to happen, the baby can suffer from oxygen deprivation to the brain, which causes brain damage and can subsequently result in a diagnosis of cerebral palsy. A child with cerebral palsy can suffer a range of impairments that can vary in severity. Since there is no cure, the disorder results in lifelong disability and often, the need for intensive care throughout the child’s lifetime.