When labor becomes complicated, the doctor may opt to use forceps to aid the process. Unfortunately, these birth-assisting instruments can sometimes prove to do more harm than good. Forceps are most commonly used when the mother is struggling to push the baby out by herself.
The forceps are used by placing the open ends around the baby’s head, helping to guide the baby out during contractions. If the doctor uses too much pressure can cause significant damage to the baby and to the mother. The mother may experience injuries to her urethra, bladder, or experience a tear or laceration.
Unfortunately, the baby can suffer more serious injuries, such as:
- Fractures of the skull
- Traumatic brain injury
- Head swelling
- Seizures
- Facial palsy
- Hemorrhages
Injuries caused by forceps are preventable. Most often, the doctor’s negligence that causes serious errors during forceps use. If this happens and the baby is severely injured, a lawsuit may be filed to seek compensation from the liable party.
Determining liability in a birth injury case comes down to a number of factors. The doctor may be responsible for using an excessive amount of pressure. Also, the hospital may be liable if the doctor wasn’t fully trained and they hired him or her anyway. It requires legal assistance to help determine who can be held accountable for a birth injury.
Birth injuries caused by forceps can be very serious and often result in lifelong damages. If your baby was harmed, you may be able to file a claim. Call The Law Office of Snyder & Snyder, P.A. to speak with our Baltimore birth injury attorneys about your potential case. Our experienced team is ready to stand up for you, your baby, and your family.
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