A Serious Cause of Birth Injuries
Umbilical prolapse and umbilical cord compression are medical emergencies that can pose serious risks to both the baby and the mother during childbirth. These conditions, while rare, can lead to severe complications, including brain damage, physical disabilities, and in tragic cases, infant loss. At Van Wey, Metzler & Williams, we understand the devastating effects of birth injuries caused by umbilical cord prolapse and compression, and we are committed to seeking justice for families impacted by preventable medical errors.
What Are Umbilical Prolapse and Compression?
The umbilical cord serves as a lifeline for a developing baby, delivering oxygen and nutrients while removing waste. When complications arise involving the cord, the consequences can be life-altering:
- Umbilical Cord Prolapse occurs when the cord slips into the birth canal ahead of the baby during labor. This can cause the cord to become compressed or pinched, cutting off oxygen and blood flow to the baby.
- Umbilical Cord Compression involves pressure on the umbilical cord, which can occur due to various factors such as abnormal fetal positioning, nuchal cord (when the cord wraps around the baby’s neck), or excessive uterine contractions.
Both conditions require immediate medical intervention to prevent oxygen deprivation and other critical complications.
While these conditions can happen unpredictably, certain factors increase the likelihood of their occurrence.
Physicians should be vigilant about identifying and managing these rand other potential risk factors to prevent harm to the baby.
Signs and Symptoms of Umbilical Cord Prolapse or Compression
The following signs may indicate umbilical cord issues during labor:
- Sudden changes in the baby’s heart rate (bradycardia or variable decelerations).
- Visible or palpable cord in the birth canal (in the case of prolapse).
- Abnormal fetal distress patterns on the monitor.
Prompt recognition and action by the medical team are essential to preventing serious outcomes. If these signs are present, emergency measures—such as repositioning the mother, administering oxygen, or performing a C-section—must be taken immediately.
Potential Birth Injuries Caused by Umbilical Cord Complications
When umbilical prolapse or compression is not managed effectively, the baby may suffer from a lack of oxygen (hypoxia) or reduced blood flow. This can lead to:
- Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy (HIE): A type of brain damage caused by oxygen deprivation.
- Cerebral Palsy: A motor disorder that can result from HIE.
- Developmental Delays: Cognitive and physical impairments may emerge as the child grows.
- Seizure Disorders: Prolonged oxygen deprivation can lead to neurological conditions such as epilepsy.
- Stillbirth: Severe cases of untreated prolapse or compression can tragically result in infant loss.
These injuries often require lifelong care, including therapy, medical interventions, and assistive technologies.
Preventing Umbilical Cord Injuries: The Role of Medical Providers
Obstetricians and delivery teams have a responsibility to anticipate and manage umbilical cord complications. Preventative and timely actions include:
- Monitoring Fetal Health: Continuous fetal monitoring can detect distress signals caused by cord compression.
- Identifying High-Risk Situations: Physicians should assess for risk factors like abnormal fetal positioning or PROM.
- Emergency Interventions: When cord complications arise, prompt action—such as an immediate C-section—can save the baby from serious harm.
Failing to adhere to these standards of care may constitute medical negligence, leading to preventable birth injuries.
Umbilical Cord Injuries and Medical Malpractice
When umbilical cord prolapse or compression results in injury, it is often due to a delay in diagnosis, improper fetal monitoring, or failure to intervene appropriately. If medical professionals fail to act swiftly and follow accepted standards of care, families may have grounds to pursue a medical malpractice claim.
At Van Wey, Metzler & Williams, we are dedicated to holding negligent medical providers accountable. Our experienced birth injury attorneys work tirelessly to secure compensation for medical expenses, long-term care, and other damages so families can focus on supporting their child’s recovery.
Contact Van Wey, Metzler & Williams for Help
If your family has been impacted by a birth injury related to umbilical cord prolapse or compression, you don’t have to face this journey alone. Our compassionate legal team is here to listen to your story, investigate your case, and fight for the justice and resources your child deserves.
Call us today to schedule a free consultation. Together, we can help secure a brighter future for your family.
At Van Wey, Metzler & Williams, we are committed to improving patient safety and supporting families who have suffered due to medical negligence.
