Hypoxic Ischemic Encephalopathy Can Often Be Prevented

Library Articles | October 17, 2017

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The birth of your child should be joyous occasion, not a frightening event. Many parents find themselves facing uncertainty as their child suffers the consequences of a serious birth injury, such as hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy. This birth injury can be fatal.

According to MedicineNet.com, hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy is defined as “damage to cells in the central nervous system (the brain and spinal cord) from inadequate oxygen.” Basically, hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy is the result of a lack of oxygen to the brain. When the brain is deprived of oxygen, the brain tissue can be severely damaged. Serious problems have been linked to this injury, including developmental delay, mental retardation and cerebral palsy.

If your infant has suffered from hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy, you need to find out what caused the oxygen deprivation. Many times, medical mistakes made by doctors and nurses can lead to serious birth injuries. Some of the factors that have been known to cause a lack of oxygen include the following:

Delayed C-section
Prolonged labor and delivery
Baby in birth canal too long
Umbilical cord was prolapsed
Misread fetal heartbeat
Doctor negligence

Hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy is generally recognized immediately and is known to cause seizures, unconsciousness and other serious symptoms. The medical staff will employ emergency treatment to help the infant, but often the damage is already severe at that point.

You need to contact an experienced Kentucky medical malpractice lawyer if your child has suffered a birth injury. The Law Office of Hendy Johnson Vaughn Emery will be able to review your case to help you determine what caused your child’s injuries. When doctor error or hospital mistakes are to blame, you may be able to obtain compensation. Contact an experienced medical malpractice attorney today at (859) 578-4444 or (888) 606-5297 for legal advice.