Filing a Claim for Hemorrhage During Birth Trauma
A cephalhematoma is a complication that can result from substandard or improper medical care during birth. If your newborn has been suffering the effects of a cephalhematoma, please get in touch with the experienced Omaha medical malpractice attorneys at Cullan & Cullan LLC for reliable legal counsel. We can help you bring the liable hospital to justice and get you the means for your child’s recovery. Call us today at (402) 882-7080 for a free case evaluation.
Throughout our many years of practice in personal injury law, we have helped recover tens of millions of dollars for clients in a wide variety of cases, including birth injury. Don’t let the hospital and their insurance company lowball you with an inadequate settlement deal. With our assistance, you may receive enough financial assistance to cover all damages, including present and future medical treatment for your child.
What Is a Cephalhematoma?
A cephalhematoma forms when the blood vessels between the skull and its lining rupture, causing swelling in the affected area. During prolonged and difficult labor, the infant may sustain a cephalhematoma while being squeezed through the pelvis and birth canal. The physician may also cause a cephalhematoma to form by improperly using forceps or vacuum extraction while attempting to facilitate birth (example shown below). Undue pressure and suction on the skull may cause the blood vessels to rupture.
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The Physical Effects of Cephalhematoma
An uncomplicated cephalhematoma goes through a process of calcification, after which it is eventually broken down and reabsorbed into the body, leaving no physical trace behind. However, this does not mean it is completely harmless. Cephalhematoma has been connected with various conditions, including jaundice, hypotension, anemia, meningitis, and osteomyelitis. More severe cephalhematoma can lead to a serious infection which can take months of surgical treatment to resolve.
The Physician’s Duty and Liability in Nebraska
During labor, the birthing physician has the duty to exercise reasonable care in order to prevent harm from befalling both the infant and the mother. When a complication arises during birth, such as prolonged labor, the physician should above all be paying enough attention to actually notice the issue and, secondly, s/he should take the proper steps to address the issue. For example, if conventional birth would put the infant and or mother in danger, the physician should notify the mother of the risk and perhaps recommend a cesarean section.
The hospital has the responsibility to maintain a protocol that reduces risk and to hire qualified staff. An error at the administrative level can lead to real disaster.
When health professionals deviate from acceptable standards of practice in providing medical care, they can be held liable for all resulting damages.
Insightful Legal Representation in Nebraska
At Cullan & Cullan LLC, we have helped many families recover damages after a birth injury. Because our attorneys also hold medical degrees, we are able to provide clients with the exceptional legal representation they would be hard pressed to find elsewhere. Don’t hesitate to speak with one of our dedicated legal staff.