Determining Whether a Klumpke’s Palsy Birth Injury Was Caused by Malpractice

Determining if Klumpke’s palsy, other cases of injuries or medical conditions present at birth were preventable, and the result of birth injury malpractice can be difficult. Ohio medical malpractice lawyers can go over the details of the case and help collect proper evidence, such as medical records or secure expert testimony, to help establish if a medical professional deviated from a standard of care when delivering a baby or providing care.

Causes of Klumpke’s Palsy 

Keep in mind that Klumpke’s palsy is generally caused by stress to the baby’s shoulder, neck or head. This can’t always be avoided.

For instance, if the baby is coming down the birth canal in a breech position or the head comes out but the shoulder is stuck, it may result in injury to the lower brachial plexus, which can cause this condition. If the baby is larger or the birth canal is small, this could also make delivery difficult.

There can sometimes be a fine line between an unavoidable injury and one that is caused by birth injury malpractice. An example where this could be the case is if the doctor had expectations of a difficult birth and could have prevented the injury by performing a C-section.

Another example in which a healthcare provider may be liable is if excessive force was used to deliver the baby and that was the cause of injuries to the nerves. Excessive force might be the result of inappropriate pulling, or incorrectly using an assistive device, such as forceps or vacuum extraction.

Seeking Ohio Medical Malpractice Lawyers’ Help When Establishing Birth Injury Malpractice 

Understanding the causes of Klumpke’s Palsy can sometimes help in determining whether a claim should be filed. If all other possibilities have been eliminated and it appears that medical negligence was the cause of an injury, a claim may be warranted. This could lead to compensation for the medical bills, pain and suffering and other damages. Parents may set up an appointment to consult with Ohio medical malpractice lawyers at Mellino Robenalt, LLC for help if their child suffers from Klumpke’s palsy resulting from a medical professional’s negligence.