A forceps or vacuum extraction is used when the baby needs help getting through the birth canal.
Ideally, during childbirth, the baby will reach the mother’s birth canal with no other force than pushing. However, sometimes the baby needs extra help and doctor’s can use a variety of different tools to assist in delivering, including a vacuum or forceps. These tools can be very helpful if used correctly. However, if used improperly, they could result in birth injury or even injuries to the mother.
Forceps
Forceps are a metal instrument that look similar to tongs. They are used when the mother can’t push the baby out of the womb on her own, guiding the baby’s head through the birth canal. When forceps are used incorrectly, risk factors include:
- Brain or nerve damage
- Bruising of the head
- Seizures
- Tears in the lower genitals of the mothers
- Bladder injuries in the mother
Vacuum Extractor
A vacuum extractor is a vacuum that has soft suction cups on the end of it. The doctor puts these cups on the baby’s head and using a light suction from the vacuum to change the baby’s position in the womb, making it easier for them to be delivered. If the delivery is difficult or taking longer than normal, doctor’s may use this vacuum extractor to speed up the process. The risk factors of a vacuum extractor include:
- Skull fractures
- Fetal stroke
- Cerebral or Erb’s Palsy
- Retinal hemorrhages
Cerebral Palsy
Cerebral Palsy is a condition that results from brain damage during the birth process. It is a birth injury that causes children to have limited control over their muscle movements and can affect different parts of the body depending on its severity. Both forceps and vacuum deliveries require that the tool be applied directly to the baby’s head. If too much pressure is applied to the baby’s head, it can damage the brain and the nerves, potentially leading to Cerebral Palsy.
If Your Child Has Suffered From A Preventable Birth Injury, Contact The Snyder Law Group Today
The Snyder Law Group, LLC, proudly represents clients through Maryland and Washington D.C. Our experienced Baltimore attorneys understand the frustration that comes with an insurance company, medical professional, or other party that refuses to accept liability for negligence or reckless behavior. You can take heart in knowing there are talented and experienced lawyers ready to work for you. We are experienced in handling personal injury claims that result from medical malpractice or injury resulting from serious car or truck accidents and have secured hundreds of millions in verdict settlements. Give us a call at (410)-843-3476 for a free case evaluation. You can also visit our websitewww.410thefirm.com and follow us on Facebook,Twitter,Google +, and LinkedIn for more information.