At Van Wey & Metzler, we understand the profound emotional and physical challenges that infant spinal cord injuries caused by birth trauma bring to families. While advances in prenatal care and delivery techniques have reduced the occurrence of these injuries, they remain a serious risk in cases of medical negligence or improper obstetrical care.
A spinal cord injury during birth can lead to lifelong complications for your child, including paralysis, breathing difficulties, and other life-altering conditions. Our team of dedicated medical malpractice attorneys is here to provide guidance, advocacy, and support to ensure justice and compensation for your family.
During labor and delivery, excessive mechanical force or improper medical interventions can lead to injuries to a baby’s spinal cord. These injuries can range from bruising (contusion) to partial or complete tears (transection). Most commonly, spinal cord injuries affect the cervical (neck) and thoracic (upper and mid-back) regions, which can have significant implications for a baby’s motor and sensory functions.
Key risk factors and causes of spinal cord injury during birth include:
Doctors must be vigilant in recognizing these risks and should intervene appropriately, such as opting for a C-section when necessary, to prevent spinal cord injuries.
The effects of a spinal cord injury depend on the extent and location of the damage. Injuries higher up the spinal cord, particularly in the neck region, often result in more severe symptoms. Indicators of spinal cord injury in a newborn may include:
In severe cases, spinal cord injuries can lead to conditions like paraplegia (loss of movement and sensation in the lower body) or quadriplegia (loss of movement and sensation from the chest down).
Prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential to minimize the long-term effects of spinal cord injuries. Physicians should perform a thorough evaluation using diagnostic tools such as:
While spinal cord injuries are often permanent, early intervention can significantly improve outcomes. Treatments may include:
Long-term care often involves an interdisciplinary team to manage symptoms, improve quality of life, and promote as much independence as possible.
Most spinal cord injuries at birth are preventable with proper medical care. Unfortunately, negligence by healthcare providers can lead to these devastating outcomes. Examples of medical malpractice that may cause spinal cord injuries include:
When healthcare providers fail to follow established medical standards, their negligence can lead to catastrophic injuries for newborns and significant emotional and financial burdens for families.
At Van Wey & Metzler, we are committed to holding negligent healthcare providers accountable and securing the compensation your family needs. We understand the lifelong challenges that spinal cord injuries bring, and we will fight tirelessly to ensure your child has access to the medical care, therapies, and support they deserve.
Our compassionate legal team has extensive experience handling birth injury cases, including those involving spinal cord trauma. We work with medical experts to build strong cases and provide the best possible representation for your family.
If your child has suffered a spinal cord injury due to medical negligence, you don’t have to navigate this journey alone. Let Van Wey & Metzler help you secure the justice and resources your family needs. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case and explore your legal options. Together, we can work toward a brighter future for your child.
