Category Archives: Philadelphia Medical Malpractice

Birth Injury, Philadelphia Medical Malpractice

Introduction to Birth Injuries and Cerebral Palsy

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Birth injuries can have a wide range of effects, but one of the most serious is the potential to cause cerebral palsy. Cerebral palsy is a neurological disorder that affects a person’s muscle control, coordination, and posture. It is caused by damage to the brain, usually before or during birth, and can lead to physical, mental, and developmental disabilities. Birth injuries are a major cause of cerebral palsy and can have life-altering consequences for those affected.

What Is A Birth Injury?

A birth injury is any type of trauma sustained by a baby during the birthing process. Birth injuries can be caused by a variety of factors, including medical negligence, an overly long labor, improper use of delivery instruments, or an undetected medical condition. Birth injuries can range from mild to severe, with some being temporary and some resulting in permanent disabilities.

How Do Birth Injuries Cause Cerebral Palsy?

Birth injuries can cause cerebral palsy in a few different ways. The most common cause is oxygen deprivation, which occurs when the baby’s brain does not receive enough oxygen during the delivery process. Oxygen deprivation can be caused by a variety of factors, including an improperly used vacuum extractor, a mother with a preexisting medical condition, or an umbilical cord that is wrapped around the baby’s neck.

Another cause of cerebral palsy due to birth injury is physical trauma. Physical trauma can be caused by the improper use of delivery instruments such as forceps or a vacuum extractor, or by a prolonged labor that causes the baby’s head to become stuck in the birth canal. Physical trauma can also be caused by medical negligence, such as when a doctor fails to perform a C-section in a timely manner or fails to properly monitor the baby’s vital signs during the delivery process.  If you believe your baby’s cerebral palsy was caused by negligence, you may want to explore filing a medical malpractice claim

Finally, cerebral palsy can also be caused by an undetected medical condition that affects the baby’s brain development. This could include a genetic disorder, an infection, or a complication from a mother’s pregnancy. While these conditions are rare, they can lead to permanent damage to the baby’s brain.

Conclusion

Birth injuries can have life-altering consequences, including the potential to cause cerebral palsy. Cerebral palsy is a neurological disorder that affects a person’s muscle control, coordination, and posture, and can lead to physical, mental, and developmental disabilities. Birth injuries can cause cerebral palsy in a variety of ways, including oxygen deprivation, physical trauma, and undetected medical conditions. It is essential to take steps to prevent birth injuries and to seek medical advice if a birth injury is suspected.

James Goslee is an experienced medical malpractice, personal injury and product liability trial lawyer in Philadelphia.  James Goslee is a Super Lawyer who is a shareholder at CPR Law.  James Goslee can be reached at or on linked in at LinkedIn or by phone at 215-567-3500.

Birth Injury, Philadelphia Medical Malpractice

Where to Find Resources to Care for Children with Birth Injuries in Philadelphia

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Birth injuries can be devastating for families, especially when the injury affects the baby’s head and brain. It can be difficult to know where to turn for help and resources. Fortunately, there are a variety of organizations that provide support, advice, and resources to families of children with birth injuries in and around Philadelphia.

Understanding Birth Injury

Before diving into available resources, it’s important to understand what birth injury is and how it can affect a child’s health. Birth injury is a broad term used to describe any type of injury that occurs during childbirth. Common birth injuries include brachial plexus injuries, cerebral palsy, and skull fractures. Birth injuries can range from mild to severe and can cause a variety of physical and cognitive impairments.

As discussed in this article, the best resources for parents coping with birth injuries in Philadelphia include

  • Birth Injury Support Groups
  • Medical Professionals
  • Local Philadelphia and National Groups
  • Informative Websites
  • Educational Resources for Birth Injuries

Birth Injury Support Groups

One of the best resources for parents of children with birth injuries is a support group. Support groups are a great way to connect with other parents who have similar experiences and can offer advice, emotional support, and understanding. These groups often provide resources and information about local programs and services in the Philadelphia region.

Medical Professionals

Medical professionals are a great resource for families of children with birth injuries. Pediatric neurologists, physical therapists, and other specialists can provide invaluable advice about treatment options, therapies, and other services. It’s important to find a provider you trust and who is familiar with the specific type of birth injury your child has. Luckily, there are many high qualified medical professions who treat birth injuries in the Philadelphia area.

 Local Philadelphia and National Organizations

There are many local Philadelphia organizations and national organizations that provide resources for families of children with birth injuries. One local Philadelphia organizations is Tools for Meeting Life’s Challenges, which provides exceptional resources for families coping with a birth injury (Tools).  These organizations can provide financial assistance, educational resources, and advocacy for families. Some organizations also provide emotional support and counseling.

The Internet

The Internet is a great resource for parents of children with birth injuries. From blogs to websites, there are a variety of online resources available. These sites often provide information about treatments, support groups, and other resources. It’s important to be mindful of the sources of information you find online, as not all resources are reliable.

Educational Resources

Educational resources are invaluable for families of children with birth injuries. Parents can find books and other materials to help them understand the condition and learn about treatment options. Many organizations also offer classes and seminars to provide parents with the latest information about birth injuries and therapies. For parent’s looking for birth injury resources in Philadelphia, Tools can provide a great deal of information to get you started.

Conclusion

Families of children with birth injuries have a lot to consider and manage. Fortunately, there are many resources available to help them care for their child, especially in an around Philadelphia. From support groups to medical professionals and national organizations, parents can find the information and assistance they need to give their child the best care possible.

James Goslee is an experienced medical malpractice, personal injury and product liability trial lawyer in Philadelphia.  James Goslee can be reached at CPR or on linked in at LinkedIn

Birth Injury, Philadelphia Medical Malpractice

Injuries at Birth – Litigating Medical Malpractice Cases in Philadelphia

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Birth injuries are a major concern for parents and medical professionals alike. Often these injuries are so significant that the injured child will need a lifetime of care and treatment. Consequently, when injuries at birth do occur, parents often consider bringing a lawsuits to seek compensation.  Every year, dozens of lawsuits are filed in Philadelphia on behalf of children injured at birth.  

The Most Severe Injuries at Birth

There are a variety of injuries that can occur during childbirth, some of which can be mild and easily treated. However, there are a few injuries that can be more severe and may require long-term medical attention or permanent disability. Three of the most severe injuries that occur at birth are:

  1. Cerebral Palsy
  2. Erb’s Palsy
  3. Shoulder Dystocia.

All of these injuries can cause long-term disability and require extensive medical treatment. It is important for parents and medical professionals to be aware of the risks associated with childbirth, and to be prepared to act quickly and appropriately if any of these injuries occur.

This article will discuss each type of injury and how, in some cases, a medical malpractice lawsuit can be brought to seek compensation.  

Cerebral Palsy

Cerebral palsy is one of the most severe birth injuries that can occur. It is a group of disorders that affect movement, posture, and coordination. It is caused by damage to the brain that occurs before, during, or after birth. Symptoms can range from mild to severe and can include difficulty with walking, speaking, and eating. Treatment for cerebral palsy can vary depending on the severity of the disorder, but can include physical, occupational, and speech therapy, as well as medications and surgery.

Erb’s Palsy

Erb’s palsy is a type of nerve injury that can occur during childbirth. It is caused by damage to the brachial plexus, a network of nerves that control the movement of the arms, hands, and fingers. Symptoms can range from mild weakness to complete paralysis of the affected arm. Treatment for Erb’s palsy can include physical therapy, occupational therapy, and surgery.

Shoulder Dystocia

Shoulder dystocia is a serious complication that can occur during childbirth. It occurs when the baby’s shoulder becomes stuck in the mother’s pelvis during delivery. If not managed promptly, it can lead to serious injury to the baby and the mother. Treatment for shoulder dystocia can include manual manipulation of the baby’s shoulder and body, or an emergency cesarean section.

Philadelphia Lawsuits for Injuries at Birth

When an injury occurs at birth, families may be able to bring a lawsuit in Philadelphia to seek compensation for the injury and its effects. The process for bringing a lawsuit begins by filing a complaint with the court. During this process, the family will need to provide evidence of the injury, such as medical records, testimony from medical professionals, and any other evidence that supports their claim.

After the complaint is filed, the court or a jury will consider the merits of the case and determine whether the family has a claim. If the court or jury finds that the family has a valid claim, the family may be able to receive compensation for the injury and its effects. This may include medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and any other damages that the family has suffered. Additionally, the family may also be able to receive punitive damages, which are intended to punish the medical professional or facility that caused the birth injury.

Bringing a lawsuit in Philadelphia can be a complex and time-consuming process. It is important to have an experienced attorney who understands the laws and regulations surrounding birth injury lawsuits. An experienced lawyer can help the family to understand their legal rights and ensure that the family receives the compensation that they deserve. When a birth injury occurs, families may be able to bring a lawsuit in Philadelphia to seek compensation for the injury and its effects. Knowing the three most common causes of birth injuries and the process for bringing a lawsuit in Philadelphia can help families to make informed decisions about their legal options and ensure that they receive the compensation that they deserve.

James Goslee is an experienced medical malpractice, personal injury and product liability trial lawyer in Philadelphia.  James Goslee can be reached at CPR LAW or at LinkedIn