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Shoulder Dystocia: Birth Injury Risks and Legal Options

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shoulder dystocia

Shoulder dystocia is a serious birth complication that occurs when a baby’s shoulder becomes trapped behind the mother’s pelvic bone during delivery. This emergency situation can lead to nerve damage, fractures, and long-term disabilities if not handled correctly by medical professionals. At Buckeye Law Group, we fight for families affected by shoulder dystocia due to medical negligence.

What Causes Shoulder Dystocia?

While some cases of shoulder dystocia occur naturally, others result from poor medical decision-making. Common risk factors include:

  • Large Baby (Macrosomia) – Babies weighing over 8 pounds 13 ounces have a higher risk of getting stuck during birth.
  • Maternal Diabetes – Gestational diabetes increases the likelihood of excessive fetal growth.
  • Prolonged Labor – A difficult or delayed labor raises the chances of complications.
  • Improper Use of Forceps or Vacuum Extraction – Excessive force can cause serious birth injuries.
  • Failure to Perform a C-Section – In some cases, doctors fail to recommend a necessary cesarean section, leading to shoulder dystocia injuries.

Potential Injuries Caused by Shoulder Dystocia

If not handled correctly, shoulder dystocia can lead to severe birth injuries, including:

  • Brachial Plexus Injuries (Erb’s Palsy) – Nerve damage that affects movement and sensation in the baby’s arm.
  • Clavicle or Humerus Fractures – Broken bones can occur if excessive force is used during delivery.
  • Oxygen Deprivation (Hypoxia) – In severe cases, babies can suffer brain damage due to lack of oxygen.
  • Maternal Injuries – Mothers may experience severe tearing, hemorrhaging, or uterine rupture.

When Shoulder Dystocia Is Considered Medical Malpractice

Doctors and nurses are trained to recognize risk factors and handle emergencies like shoulder dystocia properly. If they fail to act quickly or use excessive force, it may be considered medical negligence. Common examples of malpractice include:

  • Failing to Anticipate Shoulder Dystocia Risks – Not recommending a C-section for high-risk pregnancies.
  • Improper Delivery Techniques – Using excessive force or incorrect maneuvers.
  • Delayed Emergency Response – Taking too long to perform necessary medical interventions.

How Buckeye Law Group Can Help

Families dealing with shoulder dystocia injuries deserve justice. Our experienced birth injury attorneys investigate medical records, consult with experts, and build strong cases to hold negligent healthcare providers accountable.

Call 800-411-PAIN or complete our contact form for a free, no-obligation case consultation today. 
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