Facial Paralysis
Expecting parents often have many concerns when it comes to the health and care of their new baby. One major concern for many parents is the birth process itself, and the possibility of injury to the baby during childbirth. Experienced medical professionals often understand the importance of caring for the baby during birth, but unfortunately injuries do occur, especially if the delivery doctor is negligent or reckless during the process.
A commonly reported birth injury is facial paralysis caused by trauma during childbirth. Facial paralysis may have lasting effects on the child's health and development. If your baby has suffered facial paralysis caused by a mistake made by a doctor or nurse, contact the Washington medical malpractice lawyers of Fuller & Fuller at 800-570-4878 to discuss your legal options.
Causes of Facial Paralysis
Common causes of facial paralysis during childbirth include:
- Paralysis caused by forceps used during delivery
- Crushing of the facial nerves caused by high birth-weight
- Soft-tissue compression during certain stages of child-birth
- Intrauterine trauma
It is estimated that nearly 67%-91% of birth trauma is caused by the use of forceps during delivery. Forceps can cause facial paralysis if they compress the bone that lies over a specific segment of the facial canal.
If your doctor or nurse makes a significant mistake during childbirth that causes injury to your child, you may be eligible to pursue a medical malpractice claim. If your child is injured during birth, you may be forced to pay out of pocket for medical expenses and other unforeseen costs associated with the injury. It is important to have an experienced attorney on your side to help you get the compensation you deserve.
Contact Us
For assistance with your birth injury claim, contact the Washington birth injury attorneys of Fuller & Fuller at 800-570-4878 today.