A Cesarean section, which is also called a c-section, is often performed when the baby or mother is in distress. A c-section enables a doctor to remove the infant immediately to prevent injury and then provide treatment as soon as possible. Sometimes, however, there may be a delay in performing a needed c-section.
If an injury or a chronic medical condition has resulted due to a delay in a c-section being performed you may need to seek the advice of an attorney. There may be just cause for a lawsuit and a settlement for damages. The following information describes the reasons a c-section may be needed, the medical problems that can occur when a c-section is not performed in a timely manner and the legal steps that can be taken if a mother or baby suffers from medical complications.
Why is a C-Section Sometimes Needed?
It is important to understand why this type of procedure may be needed when determining if negligence has occurred. Some of the reasons for a c-section include a delivery that is taking longer than expected, the baby being in a position that would make a vaginal delivery dangerous to the mother or child, and a baby that is too large to safely be delivered through the birth canal. The procedure may be needed if the baby or the mother is suffering medical distress that would require immediate treatment. Other reasons that would often make a c-section necessary were if the mother was carrying multiple babies or if she has had c-sections in the past.
What Type of Complications Can Occur Due to an Untimely C-Section?
If a baby is in distress during the labor or delivery process there is only a limited amount of time to act. The delay of any type of medical treatment, including a c-section, can cause devastating results. Several serious health conditions can occur if a c-section isn’t completed as quickly as possible. Cerebral palsy and Erb’s palsy are conditions that may result because of an untimely c-section. Sometimes a delay of only a few minutes can result in a lack of oxygen to the brain. This is a condition that is called hypoxia. In extreme cases the death of the mother or the child can occur if a c-section is delayed.
What Might Cause a C-Section to Not be Performed in a Timely Manner?
There could be several reasons that a c-section was not ordered or performed in a timely manner. Incorrect monitoring of the baby throughout pregnancy or during the delivery may cause physicians not to know about any risk factors involved. Sometimes medical professionals are not present when serious conditions arise or they aren’t told about them in a timely manner. The procedure may not have been performed because the hospital was currently understaffed. Sometimes even insurance concerns can cause a doctor to delay performing a timely c-section. Whatever the reason for a delay may be, there could be a case for negligence whenever there has been a delay in performing any type of medical procedure.
What Legal Options are Available?
If the medical team fails to recognize problems with the mother, the baby, or difficulties with the delivery process they may be liable for any injuries or health problems that result because of the delay in performing a c-section. Understanding the legal issues involved, the process involved in civil court proceedings, and how the statute of limitations can affect a case can be confusing.
If you or your child has suffered an injury you may be eligible for compensation. A settlement could include compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and professional care for a chronic disability. It is important to consult with a lawyer who has experience handling personal injury cases. For more information call our law firm today and fill out our free case evaluation form.
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