We Have Established That Shoulder Dystocia Is a Consequence of Medical Malpractice
Shoulder dystocia is a severe birth complication where the baby’s head is delivered, but the shoulder becomes stuck behind the pubic bone. This delay can cause the umbilical cord to compress, cutting off oxygen and potentially leading to serious harm or even death.
The Law Offices of Joseph Lichtenstein in Ossining, NY specializes in medical malpractice cases involving birth injuries like shoulder dystocia. If your child was harmed due to improper management during delivery, our experienced team can help you seek justice and the compensation you deserve.
What factors contribute to shoulder dystocia?
Shoulder dystocia occurs in thousands of births annually, and certain factors can increase the risk for some mothers. A smaller pelvic opening or a larger-than-average baby can make delivery more challenging, especially if the baby is overweight or the mother has conditions like obesity or diabetes. Understanding these risk factors is crucial in preventing and managing shoulder dystocia during childbirth. The Law Offices of Joseph Lichtenstein in Ossining, NY, offers expert legal support for families impacted by birth injuries and medical malpractice, helping ensure that those affected receive the justice and compensation they deserve.
What are the treatment options?
When complications arise during childbirth, doctors may use several maneuvers to assist with delivery. One common technique is suprapubic pressure, where pressure is applied to the pubic bone to help the baby's shoulder pass through the birth canal. Another option is the Gaskin maneuver, which involves the mother getting on her hands and knees to alter the position of her pelvis. Additionally, the McRoberts maneuver, which involves flexing the mother's legs toward her shoulders while lying on her back, has been shown to be successful in 42% of cases by expanding the pelvic opening. These maneuvers are essential in managing shoulder dystocia and ensuring a safer delivery for both mother and baby.
Practice Areas
Potential risks
Doctors or midwives must carefully assess the baby after shoulder dystocia to check for complications such as breathing difficulties, fractures in the collarbone or humerus, or brachial plexus injuries. Early detection and intervention are crucial for the child’s well-being. These assessments ensure that any potential issues are addressed promptly, minimizing the risk of long-term effects and improving the outcome for the infant.
you could be entitled to compensation
If you believe that you suffered needlessly because the doctor or medical staff acted negligently, your case could be covered under medical malpractice and you could be entitled to compensation. Contact a New York birth injury lawyer to learn more.
