Many deliveries do not require the use of forceps, but difficult labors and complicated deliveries may involve the use of this birth-assistive tool. If a physician misuses forceps, however, it can cause serious birth injuries with potentially lifelong implications for the infant.
If your child has been injured by the misuse of forceps during delivery, a Minneapolis birth injury attorney can help your family seek justice and fair financial compensation.
What Is a Forceps Delivery?
The use of forceps and/or a vacuum may be necessary to assist delivery when vaginal labor is not progressing as it should. Obstetrical forceps allow a physician to grasp the infant and help guide them out of the birth canal. When used correctly, forceps can deliver the baby without the need for a C-section.
Forceps should not be used often in the delivery room. They are only an appropriate solution when the mother or baby’s health is at risk from prolonged labor, such as if fetal distress signals are detected. Only a trained and experienced health care professional should use forceps.
Forceps can be considered unsafe in certain situations, such as if the mother is not yet fully dilated, the baby is premature, the arms are coming first through the birth canal or if the baby looks like it will not fit through the birth canal.
Possible Injuries and Complications From Forceps Deliveries
The improper use of forceps can cause serious physical injuries, delays in the child’s development or a long-term disability. Physical exams, x-rays, MRIs, blood tests and brain imaging scans can all be used to diagnose a forceps birth injury.
Common types of birth injuries and health complications caused by forceps deliveries include:
- Skull fractures
- Brain injuries
- Intracranial hemorrhage (bleeding in the brain)
- Cerebral palsy
- Facial palsy (paralysis of the facial nerves)
- Brachial plexus injuries (nerve damage in the shoulder)
- Spinal cord injuries
Injuries to the mother can include:
- Vaginal tears
- Rectum wall tears
- Uterine rupture
- Pelvic organ prolapse
If you notice your baby has a sunken or bulging head appearance, bruising or swelling of the head or face, signs of nerve damage or paralysis in the face or arms, or developmental delays, this could be a sign of a forceps injury.
When Are Forceps Injuries Medical Negligence?
Medical negligence or malpractice refers to a health care provider failing to adhere to the required standards of care when treating a patient. When a medical professional in the delivery room doesn’t uphold the proper treatment standards, it can have severe consequences for the mother and child.
Many mistakes during a forceps delivery may constitute medical negligence, including:
- Using forceps when they should not be used
- Relying on forceps too early in labor
- Ignoring safety protocols for use
- Applying too much force or pressure
- Yanking or twisting the infant incorrectly
These harmful errors may be caused by a single negligent physician or point to larger issues within the medical facility, such as improper staff training or supervision. Either way, parents may have grounds to file a birth injury lawsuit in Minnesota in pursuit of compensation for related pain and suffering, medical expenses, long-term disability, and more.
Contact a Forceps Injury Attorney in Minnesota Today
To discuss a potential lawsuit for forceps delivery complications in Minnesota, contact Goldenberg Lauricella, PLLC for a free case evaluation. Our team will listen to your traumatic birth story, analyze your case and help your family choose the best path forward.