A recent study by Jason H. Collins and published with the National Institute of Medicine (NIM) suggests that a procedure for reducing risk of death or serious brain damage in babies is available. Umbilical cord accidents can happen from cords becoming knotted or compressed and even from the cords wrapping around the baby’s body or neck. Umbilical cord accidents can also cause serious blood vessel ruptures. According to the Stillbirth Collaborative Research Network, 10% of stillbirths are caused by umbilical cord accidents, and even more babies than that live but suffer from permanent brain damage.
Screening For Umbilical Cord Accidents
The study found that a screening procedure, if performed by doctors, could prevent thousands of stillbirths worldwide. This procedure is an evaluation performed with sonography that examines the location and quality of the umbilical cord, thus allowing doctors to determine if there are any issues that should be corrected. Fetal body movements also indicate umbilical cord problems, so observing fetal behavior through 24 hour periods with ultrasound is invaluable for diagnosing and preventing serious umbilical cord problems in newborn babies. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) recommends other tests to be performed in a full screening that can ensure protection from umbilical cord accidents, and help ensure the delivery of a healthy baby. Doctors and hospitals have taken measurable steps to improve the quality of monitoring and care during labor and delivery, attempting to decrease newborn neonatal asphyxia and hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy, which can cause permanent brain damage, immeasurable suffering, and lifelong impairment.
Compensation May Be Available
Recently the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) revised the litigation criteria under which OB/GYN doctors may be held liable for negligent care resulting in brain damage to a baby during birth. Umbilical cord accidents are now considered a significant cause of death or serious brain injury.
The Parrish Law Firm, PLLC Medical Malpractice Attorney works with Northern Virginia citizens who have suffered from a health care provider’s negligence and are looking for fair compensation for their injuries. Contact us today for a free case consultation, or call us at 703-906-4229.
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