When you are expecting a baby, chances are you are looking forward to a healthy bundle of joy. The last thing in your mind is birth injuries, either to the infant or the mother. Unfortunately, there are times when medical negligence leads to injuries at birth.
One of the most common types of birth injuries is a brain injury. Most often, this injury happens when the brain is subjected to physical trauma at birth. It can also be attributed to prolonged labor. If your child has sustained a brain injury at birth, you need to file a birth injury lawsuit within Maryland’s statute of limitations period.
HOW BRAIN INJURY HAPPENS AT BIRTH
Brain injury occurs when the cells of the brain are destroyed. This happens due to:
- Infections
- Trauma during birth
- Oxygen deprivation to the brain
Sometimes, the infant may recover from a mild case of brain injury. However, a more severe injury can lead to lifelong disability.
Here are two types of brain injuries that an infant can sustain at birth
INTRACRANIAL HEMORRHAGE
Generally, this refers to bleeding in the skull. Intracranial hemorrhage occurs when the infant’s fragile skull is subjected to trauma during birth, such as by improper use of a vacuum extractor or forceps. The most severe form of intracranial hemorrhage is the intraventricular hemorrhage. This type of injury is common among premature babies or those born with low birth weights.
BIRTH ASPHYXIA
This type of brain damage happens when the brain lacks oxygen due to inhibited blood flow during birth. Birth asphyxia can range from mild to severe depending on the extent of oxygen deprivation. A more severe case of asphyxia can lead to lifelong mental and physical impairment.
If your baby suffers from brain damage at birth due to negligence, you need to explore your legal options so you can pursue the financial restitution you deserve.
