According to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons (AAOS), an estimated 1 out of 1,000 babies is born with Erb’s palsy. Erb’s palsy, also known as brachial plexus palsy, occurs when the fetus’s neck is stretched to one side during delivery which results in temporary or permanent nerve damage. Erb’s palsy is often the result of medical malpractice where a physician uses excessive force to deliver the baby. For example, the physician may attempt to deliver the baby by pulling on his or her head, neck, or limbs, causing damage to the nerves.
Bobby Jones is an experienced Greenville, SC birth injury lawyer that has experience representing victims in Erb’s plasy cases. Bobby Jones is a nationally recognized trial lawyer that has proven track record of holding healthcare professionals and hospitals accountable for medical negligence that causes injury or death.
Negligence and Erb’s Palsy
Erb’s palsy is not always attributable to medical malpractice. For example, a fetus that is too large for the womb can develop Erb’s palsy. Yet often times the condition develops due to medical malpractice. Some common negligent acts that can lead to Erb’s palsy include:
- Failing to perform a C-section. If a fetus is positioned in a dangerous position in the womb, such as in the breech position, it is often necessary to perform a C-section. If the physician, however, elects to deliver the baby naturally it can result in Erb’s palsy.
- Grabbing the baby’s limbs. In some deliveries the baby’s head will progress through the birth canal but his or her shoulders will become stuck on the mother’s pelvic bone. The delivering physician may attempt to guide the baby through the birth canal by grabbing and pulling on the baby’s shoulders to free him or her. If the physician pulls too hard it can result in Erb’s palsy.
- Improper use of delivery instruments. A physician will often use delivery instruments such as a forceps or vacuum extraction pump to guide the baby through the birth canal. If the instruments are used incorrectly it can result in the baby’s shoulders and neck being pulled in one direction causing Erb’s palsy. Moreover, the use of these devices can lead to serious birth injuries such as cerebral palsy and permanent brain damage.
If you have a baby that has been diagnosed with Erb’s palsy, he or she will typically undergo therapy to encourage normal movement. Yet Erb’s palsy can lead to serious and lifelong complications. Determining whether Erb’s palsy developed as a result of physician negligence can be a complicated matter. An experienced Greenville, SC birth injury lawyer can review your cases to identify potential negligence as well as help you and your family recover the compensation that you deserve.
Discuss your Case with an Experienced Greenville, SC Birth Injury Lawyer
If the negligent actions of a medical professional caused harm to your baby, it is important to consult with an experienced Greenville, SC birth injury lawyer to discuss your rights and options. Bobby Jones has a proven track record of advocating on behalf of victims of Erb’s palsy. Bobby Jones Law proudly serves clients throughout the state of South Carolina with offices conveniently located in Greenville. Please contact us today for a FREE consultation to discuss your rights and options.
