Shoulder Dystocia and Brachial Plexus Injury

Shoulder Dystocia is a dangerous situation for the child during birth. Shoulder dystocia can lead to permanent brachial plexus injury.

Shoulder dystocia occurs when the child’s shoulder gets such on the mother’s pubic bone. In most instances the child cannot be delivered without first dislodging the shoulder.

If this is not done properly the child may sustain an injury to a set of nerves called the brachial plexus. Injuries to the brachial plexus are often referred to as Erb’s Palsy. Children with Erb’s Palsy have limited dexterity in one or both arms.

In addition to injuring the child’s nerves, shoulder dystocia can also deprive the child of oxygen. Deprivation of oxygen to a child during birth can lead to the child sustaining brain damage and cerebral palsy.

If shoulder dystocia was encountered during your delivery and your child sustained an injury it is highly likely that medical malpractice played a role in your child’s injury.

Ken Levine

Kenneth Levine & Associates,  LLC.
370 Washington Street
Brookline, Massachusetts  02445
617-566-2700
617-566-6144 (fax) Klevine@Klevinelaw.com
www.Klevinelaw.com