Vacuum Errors and Birth Injuries Attorneys in St. Louis, Missouri
At The Gogel Law Firm, our St. Louis medical malpractice attorneys know that vacuum-assisted delivery is sometimes necessary when complications arise during vaginal deliveries in Missouri hospitals.
Often, doctors may use delivery assistance tools when the mother’s pushing does not allow the baby to travel entirely through the birth canal. Unfortunately, these vacuum-assisted deliveries can come with substantial medical risks to both the mother and baby.
When is a Vacuum-Assisted Delivery Deemed Necessary?
Vacuum-assisted deliveries, or vacuum extractions, involve placing a cup-like device on the head of the infant and pulling the baby from the womb with a sucking mechanism.
There are a few different situations where assisted delivery is necessary for the extraction of the baby, and usually occurs when the delivery is prolonged, when the mother is exhausted and can no longer participate in the delivery, when the fetus is in distress, or there are other health concerns for the mother or baby.
Common issues that occur during the use of vacuum-assisted devices may include:
- Excessive force while pulling the baby’s head.
- Incorrect placement of the suction cup on the baby’s head.
- Pulling the head in the wrong direction.
- Too much twisting of the baby’s head and neck.
- Waiting too long to recommend a C-section.
- Wrong size or type of vacuum cup.
What are the Most Common Birth Injuries Caused by Vacuum Extractions?
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, vacuum extraction injuries caused to the child may include, but are not limited to:
- Brachial Plexus
- Brain Hemorrhaging
- Bruises or Abrasions
- Cerebral Palsy
- Erb’s Palsy
- Jaundice
- Nerve Damage
- Retinal Bleeding
- Shoulder Dystocia
- Skull Deformities
- Skull Fracture
- Stretching and Tearing of Tissue
Vacuum extraction risks to the mother may include, but are not limited to:
- Difficulty or Pain while Urinating
- Excessive Genital Tearing
- Fecal or Urinary Incontinence
- Longer Postpartum Recovery Period
- Perineal Pain
If you have experienced injuries or your baby has suffered birth injuries from vacuum errors during delivery, contact our birth injury attorneys in St. Louis today to review your case by calling (314) 370-8173 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation. We can help you pursue the negligent medical care provider who is liable for your or your child’s injuries, so you can get the financial recovery you need to move forward with confidence.
