Arlington Heights Birth Fractures Attorneys

Lawyers in Cook County for Broken Bones Due to Childbirth Trauma

Any type of birth injury caused by the negligence of a medical professional can be devastating. The injured child and his or her family may be facing years of medical treatment and rehabilitation, as well as a negative impact on the family's overall quality of life. At Newland & Newland, LLP, our experienced medical malpractice attorneys have the knowledge and resources to help victims of birth injuries recover compensation and to hold the responsible parties accountable for their negligence.

Birth-Related Fractures in Northern Illinois

Fractures are among the most common types of birth injuries, and they can be the result of many different circumstances. Broken bones occur when too much pressure is applied to a particular portion of the infant's skeletal system. A large percentage of birth fractures involve the child's collarbone, also called the clavicle. The clavicle is the bone that connects the shoulder to the chest and partially protects the brachial plexus-the nerves that run from the spinal cord to the shoulder and arm. A fractured clavicle could also cause damage to the brachial plexus, possibly resulting in Erb's palsy or paralysis.

Clavicle fractures tend to occur during difficult births where the child gets stuck in the birth canal. The doctor may use force to deliver the baby, but if too much force is applied or if tools are used incorrectly, the baby is at risk for clavicle fractures. These types of injuries are also possible in breech birth scenarios, as the baby's arm and shoulder could become lodged against the mother's pubic bone.

Schaumburg Counsel for Skull Fractures

The improper use of instruments and excessive force can also cause fractures to an infant's skull. Skull fractures are especially dangerous and are often associated with birth-related brain injuries. During a difficult labor, attending medical staff must be sure that all tools are used appropriately and safely so that injuries to the baby can be avoided.

Indications of a Birth Fracture

Fractured bones are not always obvious immediately, but symptoms generally develop within a few hours or a couple of days. Your child may have suffered a fracture during the childbirth process if he or she is experiencing:

• A limb that droops or does not move;
• Slouching or limited movement;
• Swelling in a particular area;
• Bruising or discoloration; and
• Localized sensitivity to being touched.

Fortunately, most birth fractures are identified quickly and, with proper treatment, heal quickly and completely. Sometimes, however, a fracture will not be discovered or it will be severe enough to cause problems for many years to come. An untreated or serious fracture could cause development issues and other long-term complications.

Building a Birth Injury Case in Wheeling and Long Grove

In order to collect compensation in a birth fracture case, you will need to show that a doctor, nurse, or another medical professional caused the fracture by failing to act in accordance with current medical standards. At Newland & Newland, LLP, we know that proving negligence can be difficult and requires a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances of the birth. Our attorneys will review medical records, notes, hospital files, and any other information that might be useful. We also work with a network of medical experts whose input can help us show substandard care caused your child's injuries.

Call 847-797-8000 Today

For more information about fractures at birth, contact our office. Call 847-797-8000 for a free phone consultation and case review at any of our five locations. Our firm serves clients in Arlington Heights, Rolling Meadows, Schaumburg, Buffalo Grove, Mount Prospect, Palatine, Elk Grove Village, Wheeling, Long Grove, Des Plaines, Lake County, DuPage County, Cook County, and the surrounding areas.