People in Iowa who are expecting a child may wish to be aware of the chances of injury to babies caused by mechanical forces, including traction and compression. While such injuries are relatively rare, happening t only 6-8 infants for every 1,000 live births, injuries do still happen and can result in significant health issues to a child as they get older.
Most birth injuries. are able to be predicted by an obstetrician, and thus can be prevented or have damage mitigated. Nearly half are potentially avoidable altogether. However, 2% of stillbirths and neonatal deaths can still be attributed to injuries caused by mechanical forces.
There are certain risk factors that can increase chances of these types of birth injuries. These include the use of instruments, such as forceps or vacuums, during delivery, excessive traction, breech deliveries, and infants who are larger than 4500 G.
Injuries to infants during childbirth can result in devastating long-term effects and a reduction in quality of life, and they may require long-term care. Medical expenses can be costly, and families may need to miss work to care for their child. Parents who have had an infant suffer an injury during delivery may wish to seek the aid of an attorney who practices in medical malpractice cases. If the injury could have reasonably been prevented, an attorney may be able to help the family hold the hospital or medical practitioner accountable. They may be able to help obtain compensation for medical expenses and future care related to the injury.