Doctors may use special maneuvers and medical techniques to resolve shoulder dystocia, but the condition carries significant risks. Approximately 20% of cases result in injuries to the infant, and a similar percentage lead to maternal injuries. Potential complications include:
Answer:
Shoulder dystocia is a serious birth complication that occurs when a baby’s shoulder becomes lodged behind the mother’s pubic bone during delivery, preventing the baby from passing smoothly through the birth canal. This complication happens in about 1% of all births and is more common when the mother has diabetes, obesity, or when the baby has a high birth weight (macrosomia).
Bruising, fractures, or lacerations
Brachial plexus nerve damage (which may cause Erb’s palsy or Klumpke’s palsy)
Oxygen deprivation, which can lead to brain injury or cerebral palsy
Severe maternal tearing, hemorrhage, or long-term pelvic issues
The most common and concerning injury associated with shoulder dystocia is brachial plexus nerve damage, which may cause permanent impairment of the shoulder, arm, or hand. While many cases are managed appropriately, some birth injuries could have been prevented with proper medical care.
If your child suffered permanent injuries due to shoulder dystocia and you suspect negligence played a role, contact a Dallas birth injury lawyer to review your case. The attorneys at Rasansky | McKenzie Law offer families a free, private, no-obligation consultation. Call us anytime at (214) 651-6100.
Shoulder dystocia is a serious birth complication that occurs when a baby’s shoulder becomes lodged behind the mother’s pubic bone during delivery, preventing the baby from passing smoothly through the birth canal. This complication happens in about 1% of all births and is more common when the mother has diabetes, obesity, or when the baby has a high birth weight (macrosomia).
Doctors may use special maneuvers and medical techniques to resolve shoulder dystocia, but the condition carries significant risks. Approximately 20% of cases result in injuries to the infant, and a similar percentage lead to maternal injuries. Potential complications include:
Bruising, fractures, or lacerations
Brachial plexus nerve damage (which may cause Erb’s palsy or Klumpke’s palsy)
Oxygen deprivation, which can lead to brain injury or cerebral palsy
Severe maternal tearing, hemorrhage, or long-term pelvic issues
The most common and concerning injury associated with shoulder dystocia is brachial plexus nerve damage, which may cause permanent impairment of the shoulder, arm, or hand. While many cases are managed appropriately, some birth injuries could have been prevented with proper medical care.
If your child suffered permanent injuries due to shoulder dystocia and you suspect negligence played a role, contact a Dallas birth injury lawyer to review your case. The attorneys at Rasansky | McKenzie Law offer families a free, private, no-obligation consultation. Call us anytime at (214) 651-6100.
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