The miracle of childbirth can take an unexpected turn when complications arise, leading to birth injuries in newborns. While some are minor and resolve quickly, others can have lifelong consequences. Understanding the most common and serious types of birth injuries is important for both parents and medical professionals.

The following are among the most common types of birth injuries:

• Cerebral palsy — This is a group of motor disorders affecting movement and balance. Oxygen deprivation during birth is a leading cause, often linked to a failure to identify fetal distress or respond appropriately. Missed signs or delayed interventions like emergency C-sections can have devastating consequences. This highlights the critical role of close fetal monitoring and timely action by medical staff.

• Hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) — This is the technical term for brain damage caused by oxygen and blood flow deprivation. Early diagnosis through immediate testing after birth is vital, as prompt treatment can minimize lasting neurological damage.

• Skeletal damage — This can result in difficult deliveries. Improper use of forceps or vacuum extraction tools can lead to injuries in the skull, clavicle, femurs, or other bones. Fortunately, these injuries often heal well, but careful technique during delivery minimizes the risk.

• Brachial plexus injury — Also known as Erb's palsy, it specifically affects the nerves controlling the arms and hands. It can occur when excessive force or improper handling by medical professionals damages these nerves. Shoulder dystocia, a complication where the baby's shoulder gets stuck behind the mother's pubic bone, can also increase the risk of brachial plexus injury.

• Facial nerve injury — Pressure from forceps or other extraction tools can damage facial nerves, resulting in facial asymmetry. This can have not only physical but also emotional implications for the child as they grow.

• Spinal cord injuries — These can occur during birth due to lateral stretching of the neck. This can happen in breech deliveries, shoulder dystocia situations or when the baby's neck is hyper-extended in certain positions.

Delayed C-sections, when medically necessary, can significantly increase the risk of some of these birth injuries. Misinterpretations, communication breakdowns or other medical errors can contribute to delays, highlighting the importance of adherence to best practices.

When a medical professional fails to meet the established standard of care, especially in high-risk pregnancies with complications like preeclampsia, placenta previa, or gestational diabetes, it can constitute medical malpractice.

If you suspect your child has suffered a birth injury due to professional negligence, a medical malpractice lawyer can help navigate the legal process and potentially secure compensation for the ongoing medical expenses, rehabilitation and other support your child may require.

At Favaro, Lavezzo, Gill, Caretti & Heppell, P.C. in Vallejo and Fairfield-Suisun, California, we assist families in birth injury cases through throughout Solano, Contra Costa and Napa counties. by calling 707-674-6057 or contacting us online.