Shoulder dystocia occurs during childbirth when the infant’s shoulder becomes trapped behind the mother’s cervix. There are certain shoulder dystocia risk factors that doctors should know about. If the mother exhibits any of these traits – diabetes, obesity, fetal macrosomia (large baby syndrome) or prolonged labor – doctors might recommend a C-section birth to avoid injury.
One doctor in California failed to prevent shoulder dystocia, even though the mother exhibited multiple risk factors. The mother developed diabetes during pregnancy, and the baby had a large birth weight. She was also in labor for several hours. She asked the doctor to perform a C-section, and the doctor refused. Shoulder dystocia occurred, and the baby developed Erb’s palsy.
What is Erb’s Palsy?
Erb’s palsy is a permanent condition caused by damage to the brachial plexus, a connection of nerves at the back of the neck that controls limb movement. People with Erb’s palsy cannot move their arms, hands or fingers, depending on the injury.
The mother has filed a lawsuit against the doctor and hospital for negligence that caused her son’s condition. If you suffered a similar trauma in the delivery room that resulted in a permanent disability for your child, we can help you hold the hospital accountable for their mistakes. Call 1-800-460-0606 or visit our website to learn more about Erbs palsy. We offer free consultations so you can explore your rights with no obligation.
Cappolino Dodd Krebs LLP – birth trauma attorneys
