We Have Proven That Medical Malpractice Causes Shoulder Dystocia
Shoulder dystocia is a rare but dangerous birth complication where the baby’s head is delivered, but the shoulder gets stuck behind the pubic bone. This condition occurs in about 1 in 20 births and can cause significant risks to both the baby and the mother. The baby’s shoulder can become compressed by the pubic symphysis, which can lead to a lack of oxygen and, in severe cases, death. Proper medical intervention is crucial, as physicians must use specific maneuvers to safely deliver the baby.
If your child has suffered from shoulder dystocia due to a doctor's negligence, The Law Offices of Joseph Lichtenstein in Philadelphia, PA, can help. With years of experience handling medical malpractice cases, our team is dedicated to holding medical professionals accountable and ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve. Trust us to provide expert legal guidance as you navigate this challenging situation.
What factors contribute to shoulder dystocia?
Shoulder dystocia occurs in thousands of deliveries annually, but certain factors can increase a mother's risk. A smaller pelvic opening may prevent the baby’s shoulders from passing through, while an unusually large baby—often due to maternal obesity or diabetes—can complicate the delivery. Understanding these risk factors is crucial for ensuring a safe birth. If your child experienced shoulder dystocia due to medical negligence, The Law Offices of Joseph Lichtenstein in Philadelphia can provide expert legal support.
What are the ways to treat shoulder dystocia?
When complications arise during childbirth, doctors may use several maneuvers to resolve the issue. One common technique is suprapubic pressure, which applies pressure to the pubic bone to help the baby's shoulder move past the pubic symphysis. Another method, the Gaskin maneuver, involves the mother getting on her hands and knees, altering the position of the pelvis to aid delivery. McRobert's maneuver, shown to be effective in 42% of cases, involves flexing the mother's legs toward her shoulders while lying on her back to widen the pelvic opening, allowing for a safer delivery. These maneuvers are critical in preventing long-term injury to both the mother and baby. If your child suffered due to shoulder dystocia, The Law Offices of Joseph Lichtenstein in Philadelphia, PA, can help.
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Unwanted side effects
After shoulder dystocia, it is the doctor's or midwife’s responsibility to carefully examine the infant for any complications. These may include difficulty breathing, which may require assistance to normalize, or fractures in the collarbone or humerus. Additionally, brachial plexus injuries can occur. A thorough assessment is essential to detect any issues that may need immediate medical intervention to ensure the child’s well-being.
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.
