Denver Oxygen Deprivation During Birth Lawyers
Medical Malpractice Attorneys Help Denver Victims of Oxygen Deprivation at Birth
Families in Denver, Colorado, thrive in what has become a vibrant city known for its landscapes, cultural heritage, and abundant recreation. Children and parents alike enjoy the different activities Denver provides, such as the Denver Zoo and its more than 2,500 animals. And, of course, we want to mention the city's 200 public and private schools that aim to deliver quality education to our children.
Clearly, there are many communities in the city that support a nurturing environment where kids and their families can develop and prosper. However, for some, the journey to a healthy and fulfilling life can be compromised even before it truly begins at birth. One of the most critical moments for many families is the birth of a child. But, sadly, complications from medical errors during this medically sensitive time can lead to lifelong consequences that could prevent a child from being able to live life on their own terms.
One such complication is oxygen deprivation. A baby being denied necessary levels of oxygen can cause devastating birth injuries, including hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy, or HIE. Everyone on the delivery team should be a highly-trained professional, and there's no excuse for negligent mistakes that cause catastrophic injuries to your child.
For families in Denver currently grappling with HIE, the non-profit organization HOPE for HIE offers support. If your child was harmed by medical malpractice, you should also contact an experienced attorney right away.
At Leventhal Puga Braley P.C., our lawyers have been winning record-breaking settlements for clients in Denver for over 40 years. The independent rating agency Super Lawyers has recognized our firm for providing clients with outstanding service, and we're AV Rated by Martindale-Hubbell, which is an honor bestowed upon attorneys with the highest ethical standards and legal ability.
Partner Jim Puga won one of the largest medical malpractice jury verdicts in the history of Colorado for over $17.8 million, and partner Jim Leventhal is one of only 100 lawyers in the United States to achieve membership to The Inner Circle of Advocates, an invitation-only group reserved for best plaintiff attorneys in the nation.
Call Leventhal Puga Braley P.C. at (303) 759-9945 or toll-free at (877) 433-3906 to schedule a no-cost consultation with one of our lawyers today.
Hazards of Oxygen Deprivation During Childbirth
Oxygen deprivation, also known as birth asphyxia, is a birth injury that occurs when a baby does not receive adequate oxygen before, during, or immediately after birth. Oxygen is vital for the healthy development of a baby's brain and organs.
Any disruption in oxygen can lead to hypoxia, a condition where the brain and other vital organs receive insufficient oxygen. After the child is born, the transition from receiving oxygen via the umbilical cord to breathing independently must be smooth to avoid complications. Inadequate oxygen during this transition can lead to long-term health issues.
Long-Term Consequences of Oxygen Deprivation
The consequences of oxygen deprivation during birth can be profound. Hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) is a severe condition resulting from oxygen deprivation. HIE may cause permanent damage, including cerebral palsy, epilepsy, developmental delays, or cognitive impairments. Oxygen deprivation can also affect organs such as the heart, lungs, and kidneys, potentially leading to multi-organ dysfunction.
Developmental delays in speech, language, and learning abilities often result from oxygen deprivation, requiring ongoing therapy and support. Social and emotional development can also be impacted, leading to difficulties in forming relationships and managing emotions. Disabilities may require specialized medical devices, surgeries, frequent medical treatment, and a lifetime of in-home care.
What Are Some Common Causes of Birth Injury Oxygen Deprivation?
Umbilical cord issues are significant contributors to oxygen deprivation during birth. Any disruption in placental function may compromise oxygen delivery. Placental abruption, where the placenta detaches prematurely from the uterine wall, can drastically reduce oxygen supply.
Issues with the umbilical cord can impede the flow of oxygen. A nuchal cord occurs when the umbilical cord wraps around the baby's neck inside the womb. This condition can develop at any point during pregnancy, but it is most commonly identified during labor and delivery.
A nuchal cord can cause restricted blood flow or reduced oxygen supply to the baby, potentially leading to more serious conditions such as umbilical cord prolapse or other obstetric emergencies. While many instances of nuchal cord are resolved without issue, it is essential to recognize the potential risks, such as umbilical cord prolapse, which happens when the cord drops through the open cervix. This can reduce the baby's blood supply, leading to a loss of oxygen.
Risk factors for umbilical cord prolapse include:
- Preterm births
- Multiple gestations
- Low birth weight
- Excessive amniotic fluid
- Breech presentation where the feet or buttocks are pointed toward the birth canal
Maternal health complications can significantly contribute to oxygen deprivation during birth. These health issues require close monitoring and proactive management to minimize risks. Conditions such as preeclampsia, characterized by high blood pressure and damage to organ systems, can impair placental blood flow, reducing the oxygen supply to the fetus. Another dangerous condition is uterine rupture, where the uterine wall tears during labor, leading to compromised oxygen delivery.
Labor and delivery problems are substantial causes of oxygen deprivation in newborns. Prolonged or obstructed labor can significantly reduce the oxygen supply to the baby. Overuse of labor-inducing drugs like Pitocin can lead to hyperstimulation of the uterus, resulting in decreased blood flow to the fetus. Immediate medical intervention is crucial in these scenarios, and effective management during labor and delivery, including timely cesarean sections when necessary, can prevent these complications.
Medical Malpractice and Oxygen Deprivation
A breach of the standard of care occurs when medical professionals fail to provide the level of care that a reasonably competent practitioner would under similar circumstances. Proving the breach of the standard of care is a cause of injury is crucial in medical malpractice cases, as it establishes the link between the healthcare provider's negligence and the harm suffered by the child, thereby forming the basis for legal recourse and compensation.
In cases of oxygen deprivation during birth, a breach can occur in several ways. It might involve failing to monitor the fetal heart rate adequately, not recognizing signs of distress, or delaying necessary interventions such as an emergency cesarean section. Improper use of medications to induce labor or incorrect management of umbilical cord issues can also constitute a breach. This failure to adhere to established medical protocols can lead to severe consequences.
Proving causation and injury are necessary components of medical malpractice cases involving oxygen deprivation during birth. To establish causation, it must be demonstrated that the healthcare provider's breach of the standard of care is a cause of the child's injury. This requires expert testimony from medical professionals who can explain how the negligence caused oxygen deprivation and subsequent harm.
Medical records, fetal heart rate tracings, and other documentation are crucial in establishing this link. Demonstrating the extent of the injury involves detailing the immediate and long-term effects on the child's health, such as hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE), cerebral palsy, or developmental delays.
Compensation for Injuries Caused by Birth Injuries in Denver
Compensation for damages in medical malpractice cases involving oxygen deprivation during birth can be substantial, addressing a range of immediate and long-term needs. Damages typically include medical expenses, such as the costs of hospital stays, surgeries, and ongoing treatments like physical and occupational therapy. Families may receive compensation for future care needs, accounting for lifelong support and specialized services required for conditions like cerebral palsy or developmental delays.
Pain and suffering can also be a significant component of the compensation. In some cases, loss of earning capacity might be considered, particularly if the child's ability to work in the future is compromised due to their injuries. Securing compensation is crucial for alleviating the financial burden on families and ensuring that you have the resources necessary to provide the best possible care for your child.
Speak with One of Our Experienced Birth Injury Lawyers in Denver Today
The Denver birth injury lawyers at Leventhal Puga Braley P.C. will investigate your case and advise you on the best way to move forward. If your child's injuries were caused by medical malpractice, we'll file a claim or lawsuit seeking the money you need.
Call us at (303) 759-9945 or toll-free at (877) 433-3906 to schedule a no-cost consultation today. Our Denver at-birth oxygen deprivation medical malpractice attorneys can help.
