Baltimore Nerve Damage Lawyer
Thousands of babies are born in Maryland every year and the majority of them arrive happy and healthy. Unfortunately, that is not always the case. Some babies are born with significant birth injuries and among these, nerve damage is quite common. Nerve damage can have life-lasting consequences for infants and can greatly limit their range of motion and later in life, make performing daily tasks difficult. Negligent doctors and other healthcare professionals are often responsible when newborns suffer from nerve damage. When this is the case, a Baltimore nerve damage lawyer can help your family claim the damages you are entitled to.
What is Nerve Damage?
Nerves are an integral part of the human body. They are responsible for carrying information from the brain and spinal cord to other areas of the body. The most common type of injury involving the nerves in newborns is known as peripheral nerve damage. This type of injury affects nerves that are further away from the center of the body, most commonly in the arms and shoulders. Infants usually suffer these injuries during delivery and they can cause permanent paralysis.
Types of Nerve Damage in Newborns
Newborns can sustain many different types of nerve trauma during labor and delivery, but some are more common than others. These include:
- Brachial plexus injuries: The brachial plexus is a network of nerves in the shoulder, arm, and hands. There are three types of brachial plexus injuries. The first is brachial palsy, which only affects the upper arm. Erb’s palsy is another, which involves nerve damage in the upper and lower arm. Lastly, Klumpke paralysis will only affect the infant’s hand, which can still greatly limit their mobility.
- Facial paralysis: This birth injury is caused by external pressure on the newborn’s face, which is often the result of improper use of forceps. This is sometimes a temporary condition but if the nerve is completely severed, it may require surgery.
- Diaphragm paralysis: The diaphragm separates the organs in the chest from the abdomen and it is an essential part of the respiratory system. If the nerves on one side of the diaphragm are damaged, it can make it much more difficult for the newborn to breathe.
When is Nerve Damage Medical Malpractice?
Not all cases of nerve damage are consideredmedical malpractice, but there are times when it is. Medical malpractice occurs when a doctor takes certain actions, or fails to act, during pregnancy, labor, or delivery. It is not always easy for people unfamiliar with the birthing process to determine if they have a valid legal case after their child suffers from nerve damage. A Baltimore birth injury lawyer will analyze the medical records and determine if the medical team used the appropriate degree of care and skill throughout the pregnancy and childbirth process.
Contact Our Birth Injury Lawyers in Baltimore Today
At Wais, Vogelstein, Forman, Koch & Norman, LLC, our Baltimore birth injury lawyers are committed to obtaining the best possible financial results for our clients. If you think your child has suffered nerve damage due to a negligent medical professional, it is important that you speak with us as soon as possible. Call our office at 410-998-3600 or contact us online to schedule a free case review and to learn more about your legal options.
