Hypoxia delivery dangers are unfortunately common. They affect 6 out of every 1,000 newborns. Hypoxia occurs when a baby receives inadequate oxygen to its brain before, during, or after delivery. The condition can lead to brain injury and, if improperly treated, may progress into a permanent disorder, such as cerebral palsy, cognitive deficiencies, or hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE).

Hypoxia Delivery Causes

The longer medical professionals do not treat hypoxia, the more likely it will lead to permanent, debilitating disability. Hypoxia may occur anytime before, during, or after labor. Potential risk factors for hypoxia include infection, umbilical cord injuries,  lack of placental growth, cardiovascular collapse, umbilical cord prolapse, oxygen deprivation and shoulder dystocia.

Medical Malpractice

Injuries happen quickly with hypoxia, however, if medical professionals perform the right steps, permanent disabilities will not occur. There have been many advancements in hypoxia identification and treatment in the past 15 years. Therefore, permanent injury from hypoxia can be due to medical negligence. There are standards to ensure that any distress is identified and promptly treated. If a doctor fails to uphold these standards and an infant injury happens, the doctor could be liable.

Costly Treatments

Costly tests are needed to determine the presence of hypoxia. There include multiple MRIs, blood gas testing, and monitoring seizures shortly after birth. Also, other tests are electrocardiograms (EKG) or electroencephalograms (EEG). The normal treatment is neonatal therapeutic hypothermia. Medical professionals commence the treatment within 6 hours of the baby’s birth. Medical professionals cool the baby with ice blankets or a special ice cap. This helps slow down the cellular response to allow more time for the infant to receive additional oxygen.

Get Legal Help

It is also important to remember that if your child’s birth injuries are a result of medical negligence and carelessness, the medical staff, hospital, and/or physician may be liable for damages. A complex litigation attorney can help. At The Michael Brady Lynch Firm, our lawyers have decades of experience helping injured people get justice and full compensation for injuries caused negligence. The Michel Brady Lynch Firm regularly takes on the largest corporations in the world with a track records of proven success and results. Therefore, contact The Michael Brady Lynch Firm today, and our attorneys will review your case for free and help you protect your rights. For your complimentary consultation, call our office now.