The Top 10 Most Common Birth Injuries

Birth Trauma Often Resulting from Medical Malpractice

Birth injuries are common and, in some cases, the result of medical negligence or malpractice. When your child’s birth injury could have been prevented, you might be entitled to compensation to ensure that your child receives the best care possible throughout their lifetime. It is important to consult an experienced birth injury attorney immediately to determine your legal options.

At The Beasley Firm, our lawyers have extensive experience representing families who have suffered unthinkable tragedies due to medical malpractice. We provide dedicated representation for birth injury victims, handling even the most complex cases. In total, we have recovered over $2 billion for our clients and will not rest until justice is served. If your child sustained an injury at birth, contact our office at (215) 866-2424 for a free consultation. 

Here are 10 of the most common birth injuries resulting in liability:

1. Cerebral Palsy

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), cerebral palsy is the “most common motor disability in childhood.” On average, the condition affects 1 in 345 children in the United States. It ranges in severity but can affect a person’s ability to walk, potentially requiring lifelong care. 

2. Brachial Plexus Injuries

The brachial plexus is a network of nerves near the neck and shoulder. If a doctor uses too much force during delivery, these nerves may become stretched or torn. 

Brachial plexus injuries can result in numbness or weakness in the warm or may cause complete paralysis. The most common form of brachial plexus injury is Erb’s Palsy. 

3. Cephalohematoma

Another leading type of birth injury is cephalohematoma. This form of trauma occurs when pressure is applied to an infant’s head, causing blood vessels to rupture. Blood then collects and pools between the scalp and skull. 

The risk for cephalohematoma is increased with the use of forceps or vacuum extractors and may lead to serious health problems. 

4. Spinal Cord Injuries

If a doctor uses too much force during the delivery, it can cause significant damage to an infant’s spinal cord. Prolonged labor should be avoided, and signs of fetal distress should be treated immediately. 

In some cases, it may be necessary for a doctor to order a cesarean section (c-section) to prevent birth trauma. If a doctor fails to order a necessary c-section resulting in injury, they may be held liable. 

5. Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy (HIE)

HIE occurs when blood or oxygen flow to the brain is disrupted. It may also be referred to as birth asphyxia and can result in debilitating, long-term disabilities.

6. Intracranial Hemorrhages

A baby may suffer from an intracranial hemorrhage or bleeding of the brain due to the use of assisted delivery techniques, failure to order a c-section, failure to monitor for fetal distress, undiagnosed infection or condition, and improper prenatal care and monitoring. 

7. Facial Paralysis

When a doctor puts too much pressure on a child’s head during labor and delivery, it can cause nerve damage and lead to facial paralysis. Any signs of weakness or numbness in your child’s face may indicate that excessive force was applied. 

8. Caput Succedaneum

Caput succedaneum occurs when there is significant swelling of the scalp. Babies often experience this form of birth injury when too much force is used during delivery or assistive-delivery devices are used. 

9. Broken Bones

Many fractures and broken bones that occur during the labor and delivery process can be avoided by ordering a c-section. Difficult labor can put unnecessary stress on the infant and the mother. 

When a doctor tries to alleviate this stress by forcing delivery, it can cause a baby’s fragile bones to break. Facial fractures and broken collarbones are two of the most common types of breaks during childbirth. 

10. Nerve Damage

Finally, trauma during labor and delivery can result in severe nerve damage. In addition to damaging the brachial plexus, too much force can damage nerves in the face, chest, spinal cord, and throughout the body.

Hiring an Experienced Birth Injury Attorney

If your child suffered an injury at birth, you might be entitled to compensation. Our attorneys can help ensure you receive the compensation your family deserves, including money for your pain and suffering. Contact our office today at (215) 866-2424 for a free, no-obligation consultation.