Birth Injury Attorneys Serving Rhode Island
When your baby suffers an injury at birth, it can seem like your whole world is turned upside down. How did this happen? Who is to blame for your baby’s injury? How can you get them the care they need? If your baby suffered a brachial plexus injury, you may find yourself wondering if they live a life with permanent paralysis. If your baby’s doctor or medical professional acted negligently during labor and delivery, your baby’s injury may be the result of medical malpractice.
If you suspect that your baby’s brachial plexus injury was the result of medical malpractice and negligence, it is important to call an experienced Rhode Island birth injury lawyer immediately. At Mandell, Boisclair and Mandell, Ltd, our attorneys have the experience and resources needed to tackle these complex birth injury cases. We know that you need money to help pay for your child’s medical expenses and future long-term care. That’s why we work aggressively to protect your child’s future.
What is a Brachial Plexus Injury?
The Brachial Plexus is a bundle of nerves that travels from the spinal cord to the shoulder, arm, and hand. These nerves are important for a variety of activities. They control muscle function in the chest, arms, and hand. They also control feeling in the upper extremities. When these nerves get ripped, stretched or compressed, it can cause serious and life-long injuries.
Types of Brachial Plexus Injuries
The nerves of the brachial plexus can be torn, ruptured or stretched in ways that cause injury. There are many different types of brachial plexus injuries. In general, the more severe the injury, the more severe the symptoms. The most common form of brachial plexus injuries is a stretched injury. The injury here occurs outside of the spinal cord and is a result of being stretched too far during a difficult birth. The affected nerves typically recover on their own within the first three months of the baby’s life.
Common Causes of Brachial Plexus Injuries
- Stretched during birth – During birth, the doctor may pull the baby’s head or neck in a way that injures the brachial plexus. When excessive force is used permanent harm to the brachial plexus occurs.
- Breech presentation – If a baby is in a breeched position, too much pressure can be placed on the baby’s arms and shoulders. Doctors must recognize a breech presentation and take measures to deliver the baby safely.
- High birth weight baby – Doctors must monitor pregnancy closely and identify when a baby may be too large to safely deliver vaginally. In some situations, a c-section should be performed to prevent injury to the Brachial Plexus.
Unfortunately, some doctors and medical professionals fail to properly monitor the baby during labor and delivery. This can result in a more difficult delivery and subsequent injuries. If you suspect that your baby’s brachial plexus injury was the result of medical malpractice, we can help.
Contact Our Providence Birth Injury Lawyers Today
If your baby suffered a serious brachial plexus injury, medical malpractice may be to blame. Our lawyers can help you through this devastating time and review all of your legal options with you. Our birth injury lawyers can help you hold negligent physicians, hospitals, and medical professionals accountable for their negligence. At Mandell, Boisclair & Mandell, Ltd, our Rhode Island birth injury lawyers represent injured babies and their families who suffered brachial plexus injuries. Call us today at (401) 273-8330 or fill out our confidential contact form for a free initial consultation and review of your case.
