A couple in Chicago received a $3.27 million verdict when a jury found their doctor liable for mistakes made during the birth of the couple’s child. Their lawsuit alleged that the doctor never considered using a Caesarean section despite knowing that the baby was unusually large. The boy’s birth weight was 11 pounds, 5 ounces.
The boy’s mother and father argued that the delivery doctor should have informed them of the risks of delivering a baby of that size and the possibility of using a C-section. Instead, the doctor proceeded without a C-section, and the boy’s shoulder became stuck. When the doctor pulled to deliver the boy, he suffered permanent nerve damage to his right arm.
Around the same time, another Illinois couple received a $9.5 million verdict when their doctor ordered a C-section too late, leading to cerebral palsy and spastic quadriplegia. The baby showed signs of fetal distress, but the doctor delayed ordering a C-section and then unsuccessfully attempted a vacuum delivery.
In addition to arguing that the doctor was negligent, the couple’s lawsuit also targeted the nursing staff for medical negligence. Many medical professionals are involved in the delivery of a baby, and they all play a role in ensuring that the delivery goes smoothly. A cerebral palsy lawyer can advise you on obtaining compensation for injuries that occurred to your baby during his or her delivery.
Other Examples of Medical Mistakes During Birth
A common medical mistake during birth is cutting off the supply of oxygen to the baby. This can have devastating consequences, leading to cerebral palsy, brain damage or seizures. Several medical errors that can lead to cutting off oxygen to the baby include:
- Failing to perform a C-section when it is the safest option
- Improperly using forceps, vacuum extraction or other devices that doctors use during delivery
- Not treating problems with the umbilical cord wrapping around the baby’s neck
Other medical mistakes that can lead to injuries during birth include:
- Failing to anticipate birth complications (as happened in the example above with the larger than normal baby)
- Administering incorrect or improper dosages of drugs
- Failing to respond to fetal distress signs, such as irregular heartbeats, increased movement or unsafe blood readings
Medical malpractice during a baby’s birth can lead to a lifetime of medical bills for the baby’s parents. Injured babies may require close attention and care for their entire lives.
If a medical professional’s mistake led to birth trauma for your baby, contact an attorney at Cappolino, Dodd, and Krebs, LLP to learn what rights you have.
