Umbilical cord related fetal harm and death is a major issue facing delivering mothers, their infants, and the medical community. OBGYN trained medical doctors and registered nurses in care of pregnant mothers during childbirth have the responsibility to detect signs and symptoms of umbilical compression and other threats to the unborn child.  Mother and children who have suffered harm including fetal death caused by the compression of the umbilical cord resulting from the negligent care of physicians and hospital staff are entitled to monetary compensation for their losses. If you wish to seek legal representation regarding a birth injury contact our Law Firm (888) 649-7166.

What is Umbilical Cord Compression

The severe compression of the umbilical cord often results from pressure from an external object or a misalignment of the cord leading to the prevention of much needed blood flow through the umbilical cord to the fetus.  The disruption of the main supply line of nourishment to a child in the womb result in serious harm including fetal death and still births. Some pregnancies are more predisposed to umbilical cord compression including, relatively short or abnormally long umbilical cords, two vessel and four vessel umbilical cords, and abnormal cord insertions. Other Serious Delivery Complications due to Umbilical Cord Abnormalities:

• Abnormal composition
• Thrombosis of the Umbilical Cord
• Coiling of the Umbilical cord
• Umbilical Knotting and Prolapse
• Vasa previa

Filing a Medical Malpractice Lawsuit – What are Your Legal Rights

Medical malpractice occurs when a license care provident in the medical field fails to provide a patient with the appropriate level of care as defined by the standard of care provided by their medical profession of a specialty in their profession.  For example, a case of medical malpractice for misdiagnosis can be established if your OBGYN fails to perform a test required by his field to indicate and diagnose fetal distress. Compensation for damages caused by medical malpractice will be based on several criteria including

• Cost of medical care including future medical and rehabilitation expenses
• Cost of nursing and home care due to development of a disability
• Pain and Suffering including emotional trauma and Post Traumatic Stress
• Lost Wages and future loss of income
• Non-Economic Damages including Punitive Damage claims

Statute of Limitations: The Statute of Limitations for Med-Mal claims vary based on jurisdiction where the injury took place. For example, in in California you have 1 year from the date of the injury to file a lawsuit. This 1-year statute of limitations requires that you pursue your claim within 1 year or be barred from bringing claim for damages.

Contacting an Attorney

If you child has sustained severe injuries due to fetal distress including umbilical cord obstruction due to the negligent care of a health care provider, contact our Law Offices.