Chicago Medical Malpractice Attorney Discusses Birth Injuries Arising From Vacuum Extractors and Forceps Injuries

This article briefly examines birth injuries caused by vacuum extractors and forceps, two medical instruments often used in the delivery of a baby. The primary goal of this article is to help readers gain a basic understanding of these instruments. In addition, this article will explain a bit more about Brachial Plexus Injuries.

What is a vacuum extractor?

A vacuum extractor is comprised of a small rubberlike cup hooked up to a vacuum. This cup attaches to a newborn’s head and through gentle suction helps pull the baby out during delivery, usually as the mother pushes.

What are forceps?

Forceps are a metal surgical tool with rounded edges. They are designed to fit around a newborn’s head and help pull the baby out during delivery, again, usually as the mother pushes.

When is a vacuum extractor or forceps utilized?

The use of a vacuum extractor or forceps is typically needed when the labor is unusually difficult, long, when the fetus is in distress or when the mother is unable to push hard enough.

What type of birth injuries can occur with a vacuum extractor or forceps?

The following types of birth injuries can occur through the use of a vacuum extractor:

• Shoulder dystocia/Brachial plexus injuries (See Below)
• Retinal (eye) hemorrhages
• Bruising on the baby’s scalp
• Jaundice
• Other birth injuries

The following types of birth injuries can occur through the use of forceps:

• Brain injuries/Skull injuries
• Bruising on the baby’s scalp
• Other birth injuries

Brachial Plexus Injuries

Since the birth injuries listed above are, for the most part, self-explanatory, this article will take a closer look at brachial plexus injuries, a potentially serious type of birth injury. The primary objective is to help readers gain a basic understanding about this devastating condition.

What is the “brachial plexus”?

The brachial plexus is a system of nerves that transmits spinal signals (movement signals) to the hand, arm and shoulder. When the nerves of the brachial plexus are injured, movement of these body parts can become significantly impaired.

Some of the symptoms of a brachial plexus injury include:

• Absence of sensation in the hand or arm
• Absence of muscle control in the hand or arm
• Paralysis of the arm

What is Erb’s palsy?

Simply put, Erb’s palsy is a paralysis of the upper brachial plexus.

What is Klumpke’s palsy?

Simply put, Klumpke’s palsy is a paralysis of the lower brachial plexus.

What are the causes of brachial plexus injuries in newborns?

Brachial plexus injuries can result when a baby’s shoulder is impacted during delivery. This can cause the nerves of the brachial plexus to stretch or even tear.

Can brachial plexus injuries be treated?

If the brachial plexus nerves are torn, they will need to be reconnected via surgery as soon as possible. Failure to do so will most likely prevent recovery.

If the brachial plexus nerves are stretched, they will likely heal over time. However, the degree of recovery varies from person to person.

If your child suffered a birth injury or you lost a loved one to what you believe was medical malpractice, you should strongly consider contacting an experienced medical malpractice lawyer. Please contact the skilled Chicago birth injury attorneys at Willens Law Offices today at 312-957-4166 to see how we can help you.