Can Vacuum Extraction Delivery Cause Cerebral Palsy?
What is a Vacuum Extractor?
A vacuum extractor is used to assist with delivery when labor is not progressing, there are health risks to the mother, or the baby is in fetal distress. It can be described as a cup with a handle and a vacuum pump. The procedure of vacuum extraction involves applying the cup to the baby’s head as it produces suction, and as the doctor pulls the handle, the baby is then guided out of the birth canal.
Vacuum extraction is a generally safe procedure. However, there are birth injury risks involved if the device isn’t used correctly, including cerebral palsy. Here’s what you need to know.
How Does Vacuum Extraction Cause Cerebral Palsy?
The use of vacuum extraction comes with the risk of using too much force, which can contribute to the development of cerebral palsy. Other causes of cerebral palsy may include:
- Use of forceps in delivery
- Inadequate supply of oxygen during labor or delivery
- Prolonged labor (labor lasting more than 18 hours)
- Delayed C-section
- Improper monitoring of the fetus
Are There Other Risks of Vacuum Extraction?
Besides cerebral palsy, vacuum extraction can also cause the following birth injuries:
- Scalp wounds and bleeding
- Erb’s palsy and brachial plexus injuries (caused by stretching of nerves in the neck)
- Bleeding under the skin
- Bleeding in the brain
- Skull fractures
- Jaundice
- Brain damage
Did Your Baby Suffer a Birth Injury? We’re Here to Help.
Learning your baby suffered a birth injury that could have been prevented is devastating news. When medical professionals are negligent in using birth assistance devices and other delivery procedures, our Philadelphia birth injury attorneys at The Villari Firm, PLLC are here to help you seek justice. Our skilled attorneys work with leading experts, including doctors and other legal professionals, to investigate and prepare our clients’ cases. No expense is spared when it comes to being armed with everything needed to help our clients receive the compensation they deserve.
Contact The Villari Firm, PLLC at 215-372-8889 to schedule a free consultation today.
