Delays in ordering a c-section are one of the most difficult types of birth injury malpractice cases to prove because there are so many factors which could contribute to finding causation or not finding causation against a doctor’s medical malpractice. This is why I am hosting birth injury malpractice week, which is a campaign to help educate families of the various types of Minnesota birth injury malpractice which could result in compensation for victims.
In the United States, many births are accomplished by using a Caesarian Section (more commonly referred to as a C-Section). In some instances, delivery via C-Section is known in advance and planned for accordingly. If a mother has previously given birth by C-Section or if there are certain known complications, a doctor may schedule a Caesarian Section prior to labor to avoid unnecessary risk to the mother and child. Even when a C-Section is not planned for far in advance of labor, one may become necessary to safely deliver a baby.
For example, sometimes the necessity of a C-Section is not evident until the mother is in labor and a dangerous condition to her and/or the fetus is discovered. Where the dangerous condition should have been already known or discovered, the fetus, newborn infant, and/or mother may suffer preventable injury or death. Contact a birth injury attorney to discuss whether the failure to order a C-Section or a delay ordering the same was the result of medical malpractice.
A C-Section is necessary where a natural birth is not possible or desirable because of complications or other conditions which could poise a risk of injury or death to the mother or baby. A doctor might recommend a C-Section in advance of labor where the birth is expected to be complicated. Complicated labor may involve delivery of multiple babies, instances where there is a risk of transmission of infectious disease, instances where the position of the fetus creates an obstacle, and other health concerns for the mother or baby.
In some events the necessity of a C-Section is not known until during labor when progress of delivery stalls, there is indication of fetal distress, and/or problems with the umbilical cord. In each of the instances it may be necessary for your doctor to perform a C-Section.
The failure to perform a timely C-Section is often caused by:
When a medical professional improperly delays ordering a C-Section, a wide range of birth injuries, and even death of the mother or child, may result. Other significant injuries include cerebral palsy, which results from oxygen deprivation, and erb’s palsy. Additionally some complications, such as shoulder dystocia, may lead to nerve damage in the brachial plexus.
This is a very complicated type of case which requires knowledgeable counsel to help guide you and your family through the process. If you or a loved one have been injured due to the medical malpractice of a healthcare provider such as a doctor, nurse, hospital, or other health care service professional, call Kuhlman Law, LLC for a FREE consultation by dialing (612) 444-3374 to learn what your rights to compensation may be. If we accept your case, we will conduct a thorough review of your case and advise you whether there may have been a serious medical mistake causing your injury. There is no risk, and you do not owe us money unless we win your case.