Injuries From Forceps Use

Addressing Birth Injuries During Assisted Delivery - Chicago Medical Malpractice Lawyer

During childbirth, a variety of complications can occur that may require intervention by doctors or nurses. In some cases, it may be necessary to use tools to guide a child through the birth canal. This is known as assisted delivery, and forceps are one type of tool that is commonly used in these cases. However, if forceps are used incorrectly, a child may experience birth injuries.

How Are Forceps Used?

Delivery assistance may be necessary in cases when labor is stalled. This can occur because of contractions that are not strong enough, exhaustion from prolonged labor, maternal infections, health conditions such as preeclampsia, or medications (such as an epidural) that affect the mother's ability to push. To prevent asphyxia while the child is in the birth canal, a doctor may use forceps to help deliver the infant.

Forceps are similar to large tongs that a doctor fits on the sides of the baby's head. They are then used to adjust the position of the child and assist in moving it through the birth canal.

Forceps Injuries

When used correctly, forceps can help ensure that a child is delivered safely. However, improper use of this tool can lead to serious injuries to the child or mother, including:

• Brain injuries - If forceps are not placed properly on a child's head, or if excessive force is used, this can result in skull fractures, hemorrhaging in the brain, or damage to brain tissue. These injuries can lead to conditions such as fetal stroke, cystic encephalomalacia, hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy (HIE), or other forms of neonatal encephalopathy. Brain damage can result in life-long disabilities or developmental disorders such as Cerebral Palsy.
• Brachial plexus injuries - Twisting or pulling of the child's neck and/or shoulders can cause nerve damage and conditions such as Erb's Palsy that affect sensation and movement in the arms, wrists, and hands.
• Facial injuries - An infant may suffer physical damage such as cuts and bruises from the application of forceps. These injuries are often minor, but in some cases, they can lead to hemorrhaging, damage to facial or cranial nerves, or fractured facial bones.
• Maternal injuries - Use of forceps can cause vaginal lacerations or uterine rupture, which may lead to post-partum hemorrhaging and, in severe cases, maternal death. The mother may also experience injuries to the urethra or bladder, which may lead to short-term or long-term incontinence or loss of bowel control.

Due to the potential for injury, forceps should be used with extreme care. If delivery is taking too long, even with the use of assistive devices, a Cesarean section may be necessary. The child and mother should be closely monitored throughout labor and delivery, and immediate steps should be taken if any signs of distress are indicated.

Help Addressing the Effects of Forceps-Related Birth Injuries

Forceps can be a helpful tool that allows medical providers to assist in delivering a child safely. However, if they are not used properly, this can lead to serious injuries and lifelong disabilities. If your child is exhibiting signs of injury or developmental disorders after a birth in which forceps were used, it is possible that medical negligence occurred. At the Birth Injury Law Alliance, we can examine the circumstances of your case and help you determine your legal options, ensuring that you will be able to provide the care your child needs following a birth injury. To schedule a free consultation and case evaluation, contact us today at 312-462-4200.