Brachial Plexus Birth Injuries

The brachial plexus is a bundle of nerves that starts in the spinal cord before moving up and over the shoulder and down the arm, all the way into the fingers. The nerves control muscle movement and feeling from the shoulder to the fingertips, so any damage to the nerve group can result in a partial or total loss of arm control.

While brachial plexus injuries can be caused by participation in contact sport accidents and even car wrecks, they often affect babies during the delivery process. Such injuries often occur as a result of shoulder dystocia. This happens when a baby's anterior shoulder gets stuck against the mother's pubic bone, wedging the baby in the birth canal during the birth process.

If a doctor stays calm and efficient, he or she can use special maneuvering techniques to help release the baby. However, if the medical staff uses too much force in freeing the child, it can cause strains and tears to the brachial plexus nerves.

Consequences of Brachial Plexus Injuries

Sometimes, a simple strain of these nerves can cause only temporary damage that goes away on its own. However, if more serious damage occurs, it can result in a lifelong disability for the baby. When the nerves controlling the upper part of the arm are damaged, it is termed Erb's palsy. When the nerves controlling the lower arm are harmed, it is called Klumpke's palsy.

When shoulder dystocia occurs, a doctor and his or her staff should be able to calmly and safely remove the baby without any damage to the child. However, too much force or inappropriate maneuvering can lead to brachial plexus injuries that may cause permanent disability.

Contact Us

If you or someone you know has had a baby that suffered a brachial plexus injury, you should speak to a medical malpractice attorney about your legal options. For more information, contact the Washington medical malpractice lawyers of Fuller & Fuller today at 1-800-570-4878.