Washington, D.C. Shoulder Dystocia Lawyers

Shoulder dystocia is a significant complication that can occur during childbirth when a baby’s shoulders become lodged behind the mother’s pelvic bone after the head has been delivered. This situation can present serious risks to both the baby and the mother. Without timely and proper medical intervention, shoulder dystocia can lead to injuries such as nerve damage, fractures, or other severe complications. In some cases, the injuries may be permanent, affecting the child’s quality of life. The mother may also face emotional and physical trauma as a result of the delivery.

Families who experience shoulder dystocia in Washington, D.C. often face confusion and uncertainty about the legal steps available to them. It is essential for these families to be aware of their legal rights and the potential avenues for seeking accountability for birth injuries.

What Are the Common Causes of Shoulder Dystocia?

Several factors may contribute to shoulder dystocia, some of which can be identified before or during labor. One common factor is fetal macrosomia, where the baby is larger than average, making it more likely for the shoulders to become stuck during delivery. Another risk factor is gestational diabetes, a condition that can cause the baby to grow larger than usual.

Labor itself can also contribute to shoulder dystocia. Prolonged or difficult labor increases the risk of complications, including shoulder dystocia. In some cases, the use of assisted delivery tools, such as vacuum extractors or forceps, can raise the likelihood of this issue occurring. The shape or size of the mother’s pelvis may also play a role, as an abnormal pelvic structure can increase the chance of the baby getting stuck.

Many of these risk factors can be assessed before labor, and healthcare providers are responsible for managing these risks to prevent complications. If a provider fails to properly address or prepare for these risk factors, families may have legal recourse if injuries occur as a result of shoulder dystocia.

What Injuries Can Result from Shoulder Dystocia?

Shoulder dystocia can lead to a variety of serious injuries for both the baby and the mother. One of the most common injuries is a brachial plexus injury, where the nerves that control the arm and hand are damaged during delivery. This injury can range from mild, where full recovery is possible, to severe, which may result in permanent paralysis or loss of function in the affected arm.

Fractures are also common, particularly to the clavicle or humerus. While these bones generally heal with time, the pain and distress they cause can be significant, especially in the early days after birth. Oxygen deprivation is another potential consequence of shoulder dystocia, as the baby’s head may be delivered, but the shoulders remain trapped, delaying full delivery and potentially causing brain damage if oxygen is not restored quickly enough.

Mothers can suffer as well. Complications like uterine rupture or hemorrhage can occur, both of which are life-threatening if not treated immediately. The emotional and psychological toll on the mother should not be underestimated, as childbirth complications can lead to postpartum trauma.

If medical negligence contributed to these injuries, families have the right to explore their legal options to determine whether the injuries were preventable.

How Is Shoulder Dystocia Managed During Delivery?

Shoulder dystocia requires immediate and skilled intervention to reduce the risk of injury. Medical professionals may use several techniques to resolve the issue. One common method is the McRoberts maneuver, in which the mother’s legs are flexed towards her chest to widen the pelvic opening. This positioning helps release the baby’s shoulders more easily.

Another method involves applying pressure just above the pubic bone to help dislodge the baby’s shoulder. If these approaches do not work, healthcare providers may attempt to deliver the baby’s posterior arm first, making it easier for the rest of the body to pass through. In some instances, an episiotomy, which is a small incision in the perineum, may be performed to create more space for delivery.

While these techniques are effective when executed properly, failure to act swiftly or use the correct methods can lead to preventable injuries. Families affected by shoulder dystocia may have grounds for legal action if the healthcare provider’s response was inadequate or negligent.

Can Shoulder Dystocia Be Prevented?

Shoulder dystocia cannot always be prevented, but certain steps can be taken to reduce the risk. Comprehensive prenatal care is essential for identifying potential risk factors, such as large fetal size or maternal conditions like gestational diabetes. During labor, careful monitoring of both the baby and the mother can help detect signs of shoulder dystocia before it becomes a significant issue.

In situations where a healthcare provider identifies a high risk of shoulder dystocia, they may suggest alternative delivery methods, such as a cesarean section, to avoid the complications that could arise during a vaginal delivery. Failing to properly assess and manage these risks may be considered negligence if the result harms the mother or baby.

What Are the Legal Options After a Shoulder Dystocia Injury?

Families affected by shoulder dystocia often have questions about their legal rights and the next steps they should take. In Washington, D.C., birth injury cases can help families pursue legal action if it is suspected that medical negligence played a role in the injuries. The law provides a path for holding healthcare providers accountable for improper or inadequate care during labor and delivery.

A birth injury lawsuit can help families seek compensation for medical expenses and other costs related to the child’s injury or ongoing care. It is important to consult with a legal professional experienced in birth injury cases to assess the specifics of the situation and determine if legal action is appropriate. These cases often require a thorough review of medical records and consultation with experts to establish whether the injury was preventable.

Though no legal action can undo the harm caused by shoulder dystocia, pursuing a claim can provide families with a sense of justice and may help secure financial support for their child’s needs.

How Can the Law Offices of Dr. Michael M. Wilson, M.D., J.D. & Associates Assist?

The Law Offices of Dr. Michael M. Wilson, M.D., J.D. & Associates provides legal representation to families who have experienced injuries related to shoulder dystocia during childbirth. With Dr. Wilson’s unique combination of medical and legal knowledge, our firm is well-equipped to handle the complexities of birth injury cases.

Each case is handled with care and attention to detail, allowing families to explore options and receive guidance on the best course of action. Whether reviewing medical records or consulting with experts, the legal team is committed to helping families pursue justice. For those affected by shoulder dystocia, our firm offers the support needed to navigate the legal process and determine the best path forward.

For families dealing with the aftermath of shoulder dystocia, understanding your legal options is an essential step toward recovery.

The Washington, D.C. Shoulder Dystocia Lawyers at the Law Offices of Dr. Michael M. Wilson, M.D., J.D. & Associates Will Protect You and Your Loved Ones

If you need help with a birth injury case, speak with the Washington, D.C. shoulder dystocia lawyers at the Law Offices of Dr. Michael M. Wilson, M.D., J.D. & Associates. Contact us today at 202-223-4488 or fill out our online form for a free consultation. Located in Washington, D.C., we proudly serve clients in the surrounding areas, including Northern Virginia and Maryland.