Brachial Plexus Injury Lawyer

Nationwide Representation in Medical Malpractice Claims

Brachial plexus injury is a birth injury that is most often caused by a difficult natural delivery. A baby that is too large or a mother with a small pelvic inlet can lead to a great deal of difficulty as the baby moves through the birth canal. If the head is twisted or the neck is bent to an extreme degree during the baby’s passage through the birth canal, the nerves extending from the spinal cord in the neck may be stretched or even severed. This bundle of nerves, called the brachial plexus, acts as a conduit for nerve impulses to the arms. If seriously damaged, partial or total paralysis of the arm on the affected side of the body may result. In some cases, a slight brachial plexus injury may heal itself. However, a severe injury to the brachial plexus often requires surgery and extensive medical care to help the baby regain feeling in the affected arm.

How Brachial Plexus Injury Relates to Medical Malpractice

When a baby is too large to fit through the birth canal, the attending doctor should take immediate action to facilitate delivery. For example, performing a c-section eliminates the need for the baby to pass through the birth canal. However, if it is too late for a c-section, the obstetrician should carefully maneuver the baby and work to protect the brachial plexus. When a doctor does not recommend a c-section or is negligent in maneuvering the baby, permanent brachial plexus injury may result. A skilled birth injury lawyer can investigate the circumstances of your case to determine whether you have a claim or lawsuit to bring against the doctor or hospital for negligence.

For further information regarding Erb's Palsy, click here to view a video featuring Dr. Bruce Fagel.

Contact a brachial plexus injury attorney at our firm today for your free consultation.