Birth Defects and Medical Malpractice
In the United States, a baby is born with a defect that occurs every four and a quarter minutes. These birth defects can impact the lives of those affected for a lifetime.
Differences in how cases are identified and classified could lead to an over- or under-ascertainment of certain types of birth defects. A well-designed system includes active case ascertainment, which includes medical record abstraction and a clinical review as well as passive reporting.
Causes
A baby born with an injury or defect could cause long-term health issues. Birth defects are often caused by medical error or medical error made by a doctor during pregnancy.
In certain cases, birth defects can be avoided by prenatal care and the right nutrition. In some cases birth defects, they can be caused by environmental factors such as exposure to harmful chemicals or toxins. Birth defects can also be the result of complications that occur during pregnancy like constriction of the uterus rupture of the amniotic sac or an insufficient supply of oxygen to the foetus (also called anoxic brain injury).
Certain birth defects are caused by genetic disorders that are passed down through families. They can be detected through an ultrasound or blood test. Certain of these ailments, such as PKU and sickle cell disease are treatable or prevented. Some birth defects are not recognized to be the cause. They are called congenital conditions, or congenital abnormalities.
Women over 30 and of certain ethnicities have an increased risk of developing certain birth defects. Couples with a similar family history of genetic diseases might want to talk to an expert in genetics prior to trying to become pregnant. This can help them determine if further testing is necessary. Screening tests for newborns can help identify certain ailments, such as critical congenital heart defects, as well as certain infections that can be treated immediately.
Diagnosis
A birth defect is an abnormal growth that can affect any body part which can affect the way organs work or the structure of the body. A healthcare professional can identify birth defects during pregnancy or after the baby is born or during early childhood. Certain birth defects, such as palates, lips or craniofacial irregularities are easily visible. Others are less obvious, such as congenital heart disease and biliary atresia (an obstructing of the duct that transports the bile into the liver).
Many birth defects can be identified by newborn screening tests, which look for certain health issues. PKU congenital hypothyroidism and sickle cell disease are among the diseases that can be detected through newborn screening tests. Newborn screening is also used to identify genetic diseases such as Down syndrome. Some birth defects can easily be identified by a medical professional via ultrasounds and blood tests in pregnancy, depending on the defect.
It's not always it possible to pinpoint the cause of a birth defect, however it is typically linked to environmental factors. This can be due to exposure to prescription or over-the counter medications, chemical substances contaminating the air and water of communities, or complications during pregnancy or birth. Other times birth defects may be caused by a doctor failing to take appropriate measures to stop or treat a recognizable medical disease. In these situations it is possible to file a lawsuit for medical malpractice might be pursued.
Treatment
When a
birth defect lawsuit defect is recognized, the treatment options vary depending on the type and severity of the defect. Certain birth defects can be rectified before the baby is born. Others might require surgery or medical intervention after the baby is born.
A majority of birth defects are chromosomal. due to missing or additional genes that are present in the cells of a person. They are usually passed down from parents. Cleft lips are among the structural defects that can be found and neural tube defects and heart issues. These defects are caused by problems with the development of organs in the baby especially in the first three month of pregnancy.
Screening tests for birth defects can be conducted during pregnancy, after a baby is born, or later in life, when symptoms begin to show. These tests can be carried out via ultrasounds or blood tests. A person may undergo a genetic testing for birth defects to determine if they're predisposed to a particular disease.
Preventing birth defects isn't always easy. Some are due to complications that happen during the pregnancy of a woman, while others can be traced back to certain environmental elements. Birth defects can be caused by the use of tobacco, alcohol or other drugs during pregnancy. Some birth defects can be caused by chemicals that are found in the environment. These include pesticides as well as herbicides like Agent Orange, which was used during the Vietnam War between 1962 and 1971.
Compensation
Despite recent advances in medical science birth injuries and defects persist as a tragic reality. Many birth defects can be avoided. It is essential to speak with an experienced lawyer if you suspect birth defects could be the result of the negligence of medical professionals. A medical malpractice lawyer who is compassionate and knowledgeable can help you understand the legal options that you have and pursue compensation for the losses of your family and expenses.
Our team of expert
birth defect lawyers has many years of experience in handling cases of wrongful birth. We are a plaintiffs-only company and take pride in the level of service that we offer our clients. We will relieve you of the burden so that you can concentrate on your child, and your family.
We can help you seek compensation for damages such as future and past medical expenses and income loss, punitive damages, in some cases, and emotional stress. Our lawyers will investigate your case and will work tirelessly to ensure the best possible outcome for your family.
Drug makers are required to ensure that their products are tested thoroughly before releasing them on the market and to warn consumers of possible adverse reactions. However, if your child's birth defect was due to a pharmaceutical drug you could start a lawsuit based on product liability with the assistance of a birth defect lawyer for drugs.