Minnesota Brachial Plexus Injury Lawyer Discusses Brachial Plexus Lawsuits
Brachial plexus injuries occur when the nerves in the neck and shoulder joints are torn, bruised or stretched during childbirth. This type of injury is often caused by malpractice and the related medical professional is held responsible for child's injuries. Brachial plexus injury is a birth injury and many newborns or infants are required to undergo surgery, therapy, and other types of treatment in order to make a full recovery.
Brachial plexus injury, or BPI, is not a birth defect and typically occurs when the baby leaves the womb in such a manner that a shoulder gets stuck behind the mother’s pelvis. There are several risk factors that can increase the risk of brachial plexus injury, including:
- A healthy or a large baby;
- Birth involving a breeched child;
- Obese or overweight mother;
- Mother with a small physique or odd shaped pelvis;
- Extended period of labor;
- Vacuum extraction of a child; and
- Use of forceps during birth process
Brachial plexus injury can heal without treatment in some cases, while other injuries can have devastating effect on the newborn child. This type of a birth injury can be prevented and it is the responsibility of the obstetrician and other medical staff to take proper precautions to prevent a brachial plexus injury.
The treatment options for a brachial plexus injury will vary depending on the severity of the damage. Some effective treatments include:
- Nerve surgery for babies under age of one year;
- Physical therapy to improve muscle strength in the arm, shoulder, and hand; and
- Occupational therapy for improving skills that are required in daily life
If your child has been suffered a brachial plexus injury, you have the right to seek compensation for their loss. Contact a MN brachial plexus injury lawyer with the Brown Law Offices, P.A. We offer free consultations at your home, work, hospital or one of our six Twin Cities metro offices. Contact us by calling (612) 789-2100 or submit an inquiry through our online consultation form.
