Shoulder dystocia is a medical emergency that occurs when an infant’s shoulder lodges behind the maternal pelvic bone during the birthing process. At Gill Ports Hoste LLC, our birth injury lawyers in Chicago, IL understand how frightening this situation can be for families who expected a routine delivery but instead faced unexpected complications that changed their lives forever.
Understanding Shoulder Dystocia And How It Occurs
Shoulder dystocia happens when the baby’s head delivers but the shoulders remain lodged in the birth canal. This occurs in approximately 1% to 2% of all deliveries. It becomes more likely with larger babies, maternal diabetes or prolonged labor. The condition requires immediate medical intervention to prevent oxygen deprivation and physical injury to the infant.
Medical Standard Of Care During Shoulder Dystocia Delivery
Health care providers must recognize risk factors before delivery and prepare accordingly. When shoulder dystocia occurs, medical teams should follow established protocols. These include the McRoberts maneuver, suprapubic pressure and other approved techniques. Excessive pulling or twisting of the baby can cause serious harm.
Common Injuries From Shoulder Dystocia
The most frequent injuries from shoulder dystocia include:
- Brachial plexus nerve damage
- Erb’s palsy (a specific type of brachial plexus injury)
- Fractured collarbones
- Oxygen deprivation
- Permanent nerve damage
When Shoulder Dystocia Injury Becomes Medical Malpractice
Not every shoulder dystocia case involves negligence. Medical malpractice occurs when doctors:
- Fail to identify risk factors
- Neglect to prepare for potential complications
- Use improper delivery techniques that cause preventable injuries
A shoulder dystocia lawyer in Chicago can help determine whether your case involves actionable negligence.
Additionally, both hospitals and individual physicians may bear responsibility. This depends on the circumstances. Hospitals can be liable for inadequate staffing, poor training or systemic failures in emergency protocols.
Long-Term Care Costs And Compensation in Chicago
Children with permanent injuries often require years of physical therapy. They may also require surgical interventions and specialized care. A Chicago lawyer handling medical malpractice cases can help fight for compensation to cover:
- Medical expenses
- Rehabilitation costs
- Pain and suffering
- Future care needs
Working with a Chicago shoulder dystocia lawyer ensures your family pursues full compensation for these extensive costs.
Illinois Birth Injury Statute of Limitations Period
Illinois law provides specific time limits for filing birth injury claims. You must file a personal injury lawsuit in Chicago, Illinois within eight years of the injury, but no later than the child’s 22nd birthday.
Contact a Birth Injury Lawyer at Gill Ports Hoste LLC Today
If you believe your child suffered preventable injuries during delivery, speaking with a shoulder dystocia lawyer in Chicago is essential. We encourage you to contact our firm today at (312) 372-8893 or send us a message to discuss your situation and determine the best path forward for your family.