| Shoulder dystocia is a relatively frequent but very serious complication that can happen during the birth process. "Dystocia" literally means a slow or difficult birth, and in some cases these difficulties are due to the shoulder of a fetus impacting the maternal symphysis (where the pubic bones join). Shoulder dystocia is a delivery in which additional maneuvers are needed to free the fetal shoulder from obstruction. During such a delivery room emergency, the attending medical staff should recognize the problem and initiate a series of maneuvers. If performed correctly, these maneuvers should result in the release of the shoulder and aid delivery of the baby. If you believe that the medical staff did adequately address shoulder dystocia during the birth of your child, contact Litigators Incorporated. Yes. Although the impacted shoulder of the fetus can be freed using a variety of techniques, sometimes damage is done to the brachial plexus, a network of nerves running from the spinal cord to the arm. The damage can occur from the shoulder impaction, but it can also be caused or exacerbated by the actions taken by the physician. If the doctor uses excessive force when manipulating the head of the fetus, this can tear the nerves of the brachial plexus. While many brachial plexus injuries heal after birth, some require surgery or result in Erb's Palsy. Sometimes shoulder dystocia can cause fetal hypoxia, which is a lack of oxygen. This may occur if the umbilical cord is pinched between the fetus and the mother. The flow of oxygenated blood to the fetus may be cut off or obstructed, which can cause brain damage and result in cerebral palsy. Shoulder dystocia can also cause injury to the mother, including postpartum hemorrhage. If your child suffered brachial plexus injury / Erb's palsy, contact Litigators Incorporated. Although there are a number of identified risk factors for shoulder dystocia, the single most common risk factor is the use of forceps or a vacuum extractor during delivery. The risk factors for shoulder dystocia are listed below:
- Using vacuum extractor or forceps to assist delivery
- Protracted first or second stage labor
- Abnormal pelvic anatomy
- Short in height
- Overdue or postmature pregnancy
- Gestational diabetes
- Previous shoulder dystocia
The medical staff should be alert to shoulder dystocia risk factors, and should be prepared to handle the situation, regardless. If you believe that a physician is responsible for not preventing injury to your child, contact Litigators Incorporated. |
