Shoulder dystocia is a serious medical condition that can occur during childbirth when the baby’s shoulder becomes stuck behind the mother’s pelvis during delivery. This can be a life-threatening situation for both the mother and the baby, and if the medical team does not take the appropriate steps to prevent or treat the shoulder dystocia, the baby can suffer serious injuries. In this article, we will explore shoulder dystocia injuries, how they can be prevented, and how to bring a lawsuit when an injury occurs.

What Is Shoulder Dystocia?

Shoulder dystocia is a medical complication that can occur during labor and delivery when the baby’s shoulder becomes stuck behind the mother’s pubic bone. This can cause the baby to become stuck in the birth canal and can be a potentially life-threatening situation. Shoulder dystocia is a relatively rare condition, occurring in approximately only one to two percent of all births.

What Are the Symptoms of Shoulder Dystocia?

The primary symptom of shoulder dystocia is the baby’s shoulder becoming stuck behind the mother’s pelvis.

Other symptoms may include:

• Prolonged labor

• Excessive bleeding

• Decreased fetal heart rate

• Weak maternal pulse

• Fetal distress

• Abnormal fetal positioning

What Are the Risks of Shoulder Dystocia?

Shoulder dystocia is a serious medical condition that can have serious consequences, including:

• Fetal hypoxia – This occurs when the baby is deprived of oxygen due to the shoulder dystocia.

• Brachial plexus injury – This is an injury to the network of nerves that connect the shoulder, arm, and hand.

• Bone fractures – The baby may suffer broken clavicles, humerus, or other bones due to the shoulder dystocia.

• Neonatal death – In some cases, shoulder dystocia can result in the death of the baby.

How Can Shoulder Dystocia Be Prevented?

Shoulder dystocia can be difficult to predict in advanced. However, the risks of injury can be reduced by taking certain steps before, during, and after labor and delivery. These steps include:

• Educating the mother about the risk factors for shoulder dystocia.

• Monitoring the baby’s heart rate during labor to detect any signs of distress.

• Performing an ultrasound to detect any potential problems before labor begins.

 • Using specialized techniques to help reduce the risk of shoulder dystocia.

• Scheduling a cesarean section if the baby is in the breech position or if the physician believes there is an elevated risk of a dystocia occuring.

What Should You Do If Your Baby Suffers an Injury Due to Shoulder Dystocia?

If your baby has suffered an injury due to shoulder dystocia, you may be able to file a medical malpractice lawsuit. In order to do so, you will need to prove that the medical team failed to take the appropriate steps to prevent or treat the shoulder dystocia. You will also need to prove that the injury was a direct result of their negligence. In order to prove your case, you will need to gather evidence such as medical records, expert witness testimony, and other evidence that supports your claim. You will also need to hire a medical malpractice attorney who can help you navigate the legal system and ensure that your rights are protected.

Conclusion

Shoulder dystocia is a serious medical condition that can have serious consequences, including fetal hypoxia, bone fractures, and even death. It is important for medical teams to take the appropriate steps to prevent shoulder dystocia and to treat it quickly and effectively if it does occur. If your baby has suffered an injury due to shoulder dystocia, you may be able to file a medical malpractice lawsuit. In order to do so, you will need to hire an experienced medical malpractice attorney who can guide you through the legal process and ensure that your rights are protected.

James Goslee is an experienced medical malpractice, personal injury and product liability trial lawyer in Philadelphia.  James Goslee can be reached at https://cprlaw.com/attorneys/james-p-goslee/ or on linked in at https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-goslee-8214415/