There are numerous reasons an emergency C-section may be performed because of the mother’s or the child’s immediate medical needs. Failure to perform a surgical delivery when medical needs require it may be considered negligent. If it leads to injury, it could lead victims to file a claim for medical malpractice in Ohio.

Some of the reasons for an emergency C-section may include:                                                                                                               

• the baby’s heart rate is too low or too fast;
• the umbilical cord becomes prolapsed, cutting off the baby’s oxygen supply;
• the woman suffers a placental abruption, or the separation of the placenta from the uterine wall;
• the mother’s blood pressure falls suddenly;
• there is extensive bleeding or hemorrhaging;
• placenta previa;
• the baby’s shoulder, buttocks or feet enter the birth canal first (breech birth);
• labor has stopped or slowed done significantly;
• the baby is too large to fit through the pelvis; and
• the baby is not getting enough oxygen.

When these or other emergency signs present themselves, the doctor may choose to perform a surgical delivery. Failing to do so could cause injury in some cases or even threaten the lives of both the mother and the unborn child.

Filing a Claim for Medical Malpractice in Ohio 

Anyone who has suffered a loss or injury because doctors failed to order an emergency surgical delivery when the situation required it could have grounds for a medical malpractice claim. A lawyer can help collect necessary evidence to prove negligence, and may utilize expert testimony to demonstrate failure to provide adequate care.

Victims or their families may call 440-333-3800 to speak to an attorney at Mellino Robenalt LLC in Cleveland about their legal options and whether they may have grounds for a claim if there were reasons for an emergency C-section but the doctor did not respond appropriately.