Brain Infarct
Perinatal or infant stroke, also known as a cerebrovascular accident or a brain infarct, usually occurs between 28 weeks gestation and 28 days after birth. When the blood supply to the brain becomes blocked, brain cells die, resulting in a potentially fatal injury. When a brain infarct occurs, it is imperative that doctors address the problem immediately.
Causes and Risk Factors
According to PediactricStroke.org, perinatal stroke is the most common known cause of cerebral palsy in term and near-term infants. Brain infarcts occurring during the three days surrounding birth are responsible for 50 to 75 percent of cerebral palsy cases.* These strokes are brought on when an artery in the brain becomes blocked, usually because of a blood clot.
Cardiac disorders and blood disorders in which the patient’s blood may be more likely to clot may contribute to brain infarct. Maternal and placental disorders, including placental abruption, infection, and fetomaternal hemorrhaging are also possible causes. In some cases, the cause may be unknown.
Emergency Treatment
Treatment must be administered immediately, followed by rehabilitation to help ensure that further damage and complications will not arise. Doctors must act to ensure the infant has adequate oxygen and circulation. They may supply intravenous fluids or give blood-thinning medications to reduce the risk of a recurrent stroke. Should the medical staff on duty fail to recognize stroke, a subsequent stroke is more likely to occur and cause greater damage to the infant’s brain.
Contact Us
If you or someone you love has been a victim of medical malpractice, and have experienced a brain infarction, you may be eligible to receive compensation for medical treatments, pain and suffering, and a loss of potential income. Contact our office and speak to one of our experienced attorneys. We will provide you with a free evaluation of your case, as well as help you pursue the compensation you deserve.
Source: *PediatricStroke.org
