Below you will find a brief overview of the nature of oxygen deprivation during birth, including statistics that will reveal just how prevalent a problem this is in the United States. You will also find information regarding the type of damage that can be done as a result of this problem. Anyone whose child has been harmed because of negligence during birth should seek the help of New York medical malpractice lawyers as soon as possible.
Birth Asphyxia – A Brief Introduction
A common medical term that is used to describe a situation where an infant suffers from a lack of oxygen during birth is known as birth asphyxia. This lack of oxygen can last for only a few seconds or even several minutes. The severity of the damage that’s done to an infant who suffers from birth asphyxia will largely depend on the amount of time he or she was not receiving oxygen. Unfortunately, statistics show that approximately four out of every 1,000 full-term births in the United States involve birth asphyxia.
As stated above, the amount of time that a baby is without oxygen will largely determine the amount of damage that’s done. When oxygen is cut off from the brain, it will damage the vulnerable cells within that organ. If that birth asphyxia is limited to seconds, it is possible for the cell damage to be limited and for the child to overcome this harm. However, if the birth asphyxia lasts longer than that, the cells can be permanently damaged and they can release toxins into the brain that can cause permanent brain damage. One of the most common results of this type of problem is an eventual diagnosis of cerebral palsy.
Birth Asphyxia and Medical Negligence
When an infant suffers from birth asphyxia, it is the duty of the medical professionals overseeing the birth to act immediately to restore oxygen flow. Every second is critical. If this is not done, the child can suffer a lifetime of consequences. If your child has been harmed in this manner and you believe that this birth asphyxia could have been avoided or at least limited, you need to seek the help of New York medical malpractice lawyers who have been fighting for the rights of families for more than 40 years. Contact The Fitzgerald Law Firm today to schedule a free initial consultation.