According to general birth injury reports, of every thousand babies born in the US, 6-8 of them are born with a birth injury. This is a serious concern for people everywhere as some birth injuries can be pretty serious, but surprisingly a lot of them can be avoided.
Let’s have a look at some of the most common birth injuries:
Bone Fractures
Babies are born with more bones than adults, and they are also comparatively quite different and weak from adult bones. Their bones are largely composed of cartilage that makes them softer and more flexible. This is also important for the delivery of the baby as cartilage allows the baby to be delivered safely, however, this also makes it a bit difficult since weak bones can easily get fractured.
This is the most common type of birth injury. Most cases are of a fractured clavicle, which is the collarbone. Usually, these type of fractures heal on their own but depending on the severity of the fracture, immobilization or further treatments might be required.
Brachial Plexus Injuries (BPI) or Erb’s Palsy
The brachial plexus is a network of nerves that originate from the upper spine and goes through the neck, shoulder, arm, and hand. These nerves control movements in our arms and shoulders.
The most severe form of a brachial plexus injury is avulsion, in which the nerve roots are completely displaced and dislodged from the spine, resulting in complete paralysis. Approximately 10 percent of cases result in permanent disability.
Cerebral Palsy’s
Cerebral palsy is usually caused due to damage to the parts of the brain that are responsible for balance and muscle control. It is generally characterized by weak muscles, lack of development and muscle spasms.
It is one of the most common muscle disorders in children, affecting 2 to 3 babies per 1,000 live births.
Many children who suffer from this injury will lead normal adult lives with appropriate treatment.
Perinatal Asphyxia
Perinatal Asphyxia or birth asphyxia occurs when the newborn does not breathe normally due to an oxygen deficiency in the blood or when there is insufficient blood flow.
It could be caused by a prolapsed umbilical cord or if somehow the umbilical cord is pinched. In some cases, premature birth may also cause this complication.
Infant Cephalohematoma
Infant cephalohematoma is a condition that occurs in about 2 percent of all such cases. It is a condition in which blood collect beneath the skull bone.
While it sounds like a very dangerous disease, it usually gets okay with time.
As mentioned earlier, a lot of these diseases can be avoided as they are often caused due to medical malpractice. If you or someone close to you has been a victim, make sure to get in touch with a Maryland birth injury lawyer to know about your options. Law provides monetary compensation and other such options to the victim. Nonetheless, remember to always choose a good doctor so that you do not have to suffer terrible consequences.
