Philadelphia Forceps Injury Lawyer
The birth of a child should be a joyful event. Tragically, this is simply not the case for too many parents here in Philadelphia and across the country. One common cause of injury is the unnecessary or improper use of forceps, which can cause lacerations, nerve damage, cerebral palsy, brain damage, and even spinal cord injuries. If your child was injured at the hands of a negligent obstetrician or other medical provider who misused forceps during delivery, the Philadelphia forceps injury lawyer at The Villari Firm, PLLC can help you legally prove this to secure the compensation that you and your newborn need and deserve.
Childbirth Emergency Situations That May Call For the Use of Forceps
Most deliveries do not require the use of forceps, vacuum, or other emergency devices/tools. While forceps used to be used somewhat often, they are rarely used in modern vaginal deliveries. In fact, forceps are now only used in one percent of vaginal births. They still have a purpose, however. An emergency intervention and the use of forceps may be necessary if:
- The delivery is prolonged and the mother cannot continue to push, or her repeated attempts are not progressing the delivery of the child
- The mother is hemorrhaging and the delivery is imminent
- The baby’s heartbeat is irregular, or there are other signs of fetal distress (the baby is not getting enough oxygen)
- The baby is in an irregular position and delivery cannot be performed without moving the baby
- The mother has heart disease, high blood pressure, or another condition that could lead to heart attack or another medical emergency if she continues to push excessively during a prolonged delivery
- The baby is premature and forceps could be used to protect the baby’s head from the perineum
Even during an emergency or prolonged delivery, forceps require an experienced touch, as they can exacerbate problems by causing injury to the mother or child. Furthermore, the mother’s cervix must be fully dilated and all other safety requirements must be adhered to.
The Risks Associated With Forceps Use During a Delivery
There are risks for both the mother and child associated with using forceps. Vaginal tearing, blood clots, and urinary or anal incontinence are risks for the mother. The danger for the baby is much greater: deep cuts and wounds, scarring, nerve injury, cerebral palsy, brain damage, spinal cord injury, and more.
Contact a Philadelphia Forceps Injury Lawyer Today
Forceps should only be used in emergency situations when it is not possible to deliver the baby without risking serious harm to the mother or child. If your doctor caused an injury due to the misuse of forceps, should have performed a C-section, or misdiagnosed a medical condition of either you or your child, you may be entitled to compensation. The Philadelphia forceps injury lawyers at The Villari Firm are here to help you gather the medical records and damages evidence needed to file a medical malpractice claim. Call us today at 215-372-8889 to schedule your free consultation.
