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Brachial plexus injury can have long-lasting effects on newborns

On Behalf of | Jun 25, 2021 | Medical Malpractice

When Trenton area residents are expecting a baby they are filled with excitement and anticipation. They spend months planning for the baby and decorating their room, purchasing needed equipment, and planning on how they want the birth to go. Unfortunately, there can be unexpected events that surround a birth and cause injury to the baby. One of these injuries is caused a brachial plexus injury.

What is a brachial plexus injury?

A brachial plexus injury occurs when the nerves are stretched, compressed, or ripped away from the spinal cord. It can cause a baby to have weakness or inability to use certain muscles in their hand, arm or shoulder. A person could also have a complete lack of movement in their arm, shoulder or hand.

What causes a brachial plexus injury?

In newborns, a brachial plexus injury can be caused by a delayed caesarian section, a doctor using forceps, or a failure to respond to fetal distress.

Medical malpractice

Sometimes a brachial plexus injury in a newborn is caused by a doctor’s mistake. If parents believe their baby was harmed due to a medical mistake, they may want to speak with a legal professional who is skilled in medical malpractice. An attorney can review the circumstances surrounding the baby’s birth and help get answers as to what happened. They can review the medical records and consult with medical experts to understand how the injury occurred and who is at fault. Compensation may be available for medical expenses, future medical expenses, pain and suffering and other damages.