Cerebral Palsy Injuries Caused by Improper Use of Forceps or Vacuum Extractors During Pregnancy
The birth of a child is a delicate process that requires careful medical attention. In some cases, healthcare providers may use tools such as forceps or vacuum extractors to assist with delivery. While these instruments can be lifesaving when used correctly, improper or negligent use can lead to serious injuries, including cerebral palsy. In Illinois, families impacted by these medical mistakes may have the legal right to pursue compensation through a birth injury lawsuit.
SCHEDULE A FREE CEREBRAL PALSY INJURY LAWYER CONSULTATION TODAY
What Are Forceps and Vacuum Extractors?
Forceps
Forceps are tong-like instruments used to guide a baby’s head through the birth canal during delivery. They are typically used when labor is prolonged, or the baby shows signs of distress and needs to be delivered quickly.
Vacuum Extractors
Vacuum extractors are suction devices used to help gently pull the baby out during delivery. Like forceps, they are used when a baby needs assistance during labor.
Both tools require significant skill and precision. Improper use can put the baby at risk of serious injuries, including brain damage, skull fractures, and cerebral palsy.
How Can Improper Use of Forceps or Vacuum Extractors Cause Cerebral Palsy?
When used incorrectly, these delivery tools can apply excessive force or cause trauma to the baby’s head and brain. The resulting injuries can lead to a lack of oxygen or direct brain damage, both of which are risk factors for cerebral palsy.
Common Errors Leading to Birth Injuries
- Excessive Force: Applying too much pressure with forceps or the vacuum extractor can damage the baby’s skull or brain tissue.
- Improper Placement: Incorrect positioning of forceps or the vacuum cup can injure the baby’s head, neck, or shoulders.
- Prolonged Use: Using a vacuum extractor for too long can cause internal bleeding or brain swelling.
- Failure to Transition to a C-Section: Continuing to use delivery tools when they are not effective can lead to preventable injuries.
The medical team is trained to use these tools only when necessary and in a way that minimizes risks. Failure to do so may constitute medical negligence, a form of malpractice.
Illinois Laws on Medical Malpractice and Birth Injuries
In Illinois, medical professionals are required to provide care that meets established standards. When doctors or nurses fail to meet these standards, resulting in harm to a patient, they can be held liable for medical malpractice. This includes injuries caused by improper use of delivery tools like forceps or vacuum extractors.
Signs and Symptoms of Injuries Caused by Delivery Tools
If your baby experienced a traumatic delivery involving forceps or a vacuum extractor, it is important to watch for signs of potential injuries, including cerebral palsy. Common symptoms include:
- Poor muscle tone or stiff movements.
- Delayed motor skills development.
- Difficulty controlling posture or movement.
- Developmental delays.
- Seizures or abnormal brain activity.
- If your child shows these symptoms and you suspect medical negligence, seeking legal advice promptly is critical.
Compensation for Families in Illinois
Families dealing with cerebral palsy face significant emotional, financial, and physical challenges. Illinois law allows parents to seek compensation for these damages, which may include:
- Medical Expenses: Past and future costs for hospital care, therapy, medications, and assistive devices.
- Rehabilitation Costs: Ongoing physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy.
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the emotional distress and hardship caused by the injury.
- Lost Income: Wages lost by parents who must leave work to care for their child.
- Special Education Needs: Costs for specialized schooling and adaptive technology.
- A successful claim can help ensure your family has the resources needed to provide the best care for your child.
Illinois Statute of Limitations for Birth Injury Cases
In Illinois, there are strict time limits (statutes of limitations) for filing medical malpractice claims. Typically, parents must file within two years of discovering the injury, but no later than eight years after the injury occurred. However, because cerebral palsy often requires time to diagnose, exceptions may apply. Consulting an experienced birth injury attorney is critical to ensuring your case is filed on time.
How Can an Attorney Help?
Pursuing a cerebral palsy birth injury case can be overwhelming for families. An attorney specializing in birth injury and cerebral palsy cases can:
- Investigate medical records and delivery procedures.
- Consult with medical experts to determine if negligence occurred.
- Handle negotiations with insurance companies to pursue maximum compensation.
- Represent your family in court if a fair settlement cannot be reached.
Contact Us For Help
If your child has been diagnosed with cerebral palsy due to improper use of forceps or vacuum extractors, your family deserves justice. Contact the Cerebral Palsy Injury Attorneys at (866) 251-0808.
CONTACT CEREBRAL PALSY INJURY ATTORNEYS – SCHEDULE A FREE CONSULTATION TODAY
