Birth Injuries Caused by Vacuum Extractions
While a vacuum extraction delivery can be helpful in certain circumstances, it’s important to be aware of the serious birth injuries it can cause. Your child may be at risk for the following injuries due to a vacuum extraction delivery:
- Retinal hemorrhages. This is an eye disorder where bleeding happens in the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye.
- Brain bleeds, brain damage, and cerebral palsy. One of the more serious complications of a vacuum extraction is brain bleeding. This occurs when the vacuum ruptures a vein, causing bleeding between the skull and scalp. This can often lead to cerebral palsy.
- Erb’s palsy. This occurs when the nerves leading to the baby’s arms and hands are injured, making it impossible to flex or rotate the arm.
It is important to note that when a vacuum extraction is recommended, a C-section is also an alternative. Additionally, your doctor should know when it’s necessary to abandon the vacuum and perform an emergency C-section.
Was Your Child Injured by a Vacuum Extraction Delivery?
If your child suffered injuries as a result of a vacuum extraction delivery, the attorneys at Kennedy Law Firm LLP are prepared to help you through this difficult time. Start a live chat with us on our website now to discuss your situation.