Attorneys for Babies Injured by Hypoxia
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recognizes that severe injury can be the result of hypoxia – or put more simply, a lack of oxygen to a baby’s brain. Neonatal encephalopathy and cerebral palsy are known to be produced by hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE). These syndromes are defined by doctors on the basis of a collection of symptoms and abnormal findings. The symptoms and findings include abnormal tone and reflexes, problems with feeding, problems with breathing, and other symptoms.
At Walkup, Melodia, Kelly & Schoenberger, our birth injury lawyers have handled hundreds of cases that involve hypoxic-ischemic injury during the birth process. We have met and talked with families throughout California about the long term effect of oxygen depravation.
Helping Children and Their Families Since 1959
When hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy develops, the condition is life-threatening and has a high potential to cause serious and permanent brain damage. The birth injury trial and settlement lawyers at Walkup, Melodia, Kelly & Schoenberger have been assisting parents and infants for 50 years. We understand the medical issues that are present in a case where hypoxia is alleged. Some of these cases involve injury, and other, tragically, involve infant death. In fact, 15% to 20% of all infants exhibiting hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy will die during the newborn period. Of those who survive, approximately 1 in 4 will have permanent problems, including mental retardation, epilepsy, learning disabilities and cerebral palsy. Within the medical community, there is much debate about the exact causes of hypoxic-ischemic injury. Some medical studies have suggested that umbilical cord complications, uterine rupture, maternal hypotension, and other complications are the cause of such injury. Other studies disagree, and suggest that the condition is the result of genetic or other factors.
Regardless of any debate, all involved agree that when a medical provider fails to take action to prevent or adequately treat a medical complication which can lead to hypoxia, liability for any resulting damages is the rule.
If your child has suffered a birth injury because of oxygen deficiency, the birth injury specialists at Walkup, Melodia, Kelly & Schoenberger want to hear your story. If medical negligence or medical malpractice is suspected, our birth injury settlement specialists can help.
If your child suffered a birth injury because of oxygen deficiency, we want to hear your story. If medical negligence or medical malpractice was involved, we want to help. Contact the attorneys at Walkup, Melodia, Kelly & Schoenberger in San Francisco for a free consultation.
