What is Erb's Palsy Malpractice?

What Is Erb's Palsy Malpractice?

Medical malpractice in terms of Erb's Palsy refers to when a medical professional does not provide the highest quality care possible, that is, when they fail to provide the standard of care accepted by the medical community at large. Ignoring the risk factors identifiable prior to delivery, not anticipating a chance of shoulder dystocia, failure to provide information about the possibility of birth complications, or failing to take proper preventative steps in the case of a dystocia situation could all constitute medical malpractice. Malpractice may also take place when an obstetrician or other medical professional uses excessive or misdirected force to reposition the infant, resulting in a tearing of nerves, the primary cause of Erb's Palsy malpractice and other brachial plexus palsy. If these medical errors lead to a birth injury such as Erb's palsy, you have the legal right to sue for compensation for your medical bills, your child's pain and your own trauma

Ninety percent of all Erbs palsy malpractice injury cases in children are the result of child birth complications, particularly shoulder dystocia. Erb's Palsy, a preventable birth injury, occurs during delivery; the infant's head is delivered, but the shoulders require additional medical maneuvers to be properly delivered due to complications related to passing by the pubic bone. There are a number of variables that can affect the likelihood of a brachial plexus injury, also known as Erb's Palsy or a shoulder dystocia. Improper preparation for, and mishandling of these injuries by medical professionals can cause serious maternal and fetal injury. Some factors that offer an increased risk of these injuries can and should be prepared for by medical professionals. Fetal macrosomia, or large birth size is one indicator of potential complications. Additionally, other maternal factors also increase the likelihood of problems; diabetes, abnormal pelvic anatomy, a small birth canal, short stature, and previous birth complications are all contribute to increased chances for a dystocia. Trauma during delivery can also cause similar injuries; a protracted phase of first or second stage labor, use of forceps, or use of vacuum delivery increase the likelihood of complications, especially in the presence of abnormally forceful or improperly maneuvered vacuum delivery, the most common cause of an Erb's Palsy or shoulder dystocia injury.

Peter Kent is the best-selling author of 50 books and hundreds of newspaper and magazine articles.