Hypoxic Ischemia
Hypoxic ischemia specifically refers to an inadequate flow of blood and oxygen. The term is most often used to refer to hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy, or brain damage because of reduced blood and oxygen flow. The condition occurs most frequently during or just after birth, when the need for oxygen is the greatest. While this type of injury is rare, the consequences are serious, causing life-threatening and sometimes permanent brain damage.
Statistics
In the United States and in most technologically advanced countries, the incidence of hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy is 1to 8 cases per 1,000 births. The mortality rate is reportedly 25 to 50 percent, and most deaths occur in the first week of life due to multiple organ failure or redirection of care (moving to a new unit or hospital). The condition is also a frequent cause of mental retardation, epilepsy, learning disabilities, and cerebral palsy.
Childbirth Complications
All families and new parents hope for a smooth birthing experience. However, complications like hypoxic ischemia can arise, leaving families wondering how and why such injuries occurred. The exact causes are yet unknown, as the injury may be due to umbilical cord complications or maternal distress, both of which diminish oxygen and blood flow to the brain.
However, regardless of the situation, it is the responsibility of the mother’s physician to diagnose fetal distress and treat the complications accordingly. If the doctor neglects to notice the problem, and fails to act, asphyxia may set in and permanent damage can be done. It may not always be preventable, but steps may be taken in order to control the damage.
Contact Our Attorneys
If you feel that your physician failed to take action to prevent or adequately treat hypoxic ischemia in your child, you may be owed damages. Contact our office for a free consultation with one of our experienced birth injury lawyers. You may be eligible to receive compensation for past and future medical expenses, as well as pain and suffering that you and your family are experiencing due to the doctor’s negligence.
