When a newborn’s network of nerves from the spine, collarbone, and into their shoulder, hand, or arm is injured by being stretched or torn, it is considered a brachial plexus birth injury. This usually happens in cases where the head is pushed away from the shoulders in an upward direction while the shoulder is pressed down forcefully during birth. A birth injury lawyer can help make sure that your medical bills are covered if your newborn is injured during birth.
Brachial plexus birth injury causes and complications
During a difficult birth, such as breech presentation or an extended labor, or even when the doctor applies too much pressure on the baby’s head, trying to dislodge the baby’s shoulders from the tailbone or pelvic bone. The child’s shoulders are caught behind the bone, and the practitioner only has their head used as leverage to try to work the shoulders free. The contracting pressure then injures the bundles of nerves by stretching, tearing, or, in severe cases, actually pulling them free from the clavicle or spinal area.
In minimal cases, the baby will show symptoms such as weakness in one arm, little or no movement with that arm or hand, and a loss of feeling in the limb. In severe cases where these nerves are actually pulled out of space, numerous surgeries are done to gain basic, limited use of the arm and hand again.
The risk of brachial plexus birth injuries can be increased by various factors before and during pregnancy, and while giving birth. During birth, the risk factors include having an abnormal first stage; prolonged second birthing stage, a protracted descent, or even if the head fails to descend the appropriate way. Needing mid-pelvic or assistance during delivery additionally adds an increased chance of brachial plexus injuries occurring.
Treatments for brachial plexus birth injuries
Minor cases of brachial plexus birth injuries may heal on their own with frequent doctor examinations to ensure that the nerves are healing correctly. However, even minor cases will need nonsurgical treatment. Nonsurgical treatment is daily physical therapy. A doctor or physical therapist will assist the parents in keeping the hand, arm, and shoulder limber while keeping the muscles functioning properly, while the nerves are healing.
Surgical treatment is suggested if there are no changes in the nerves responding within a set amount of time by your doctor; this time may range from three to nine months. The nerves will then be monitored with exploratory surgery to see if and how they can be improved and if any steps can be taken to further restore fundamental hand and arm functions.
Contact us if you have any questions or worries about injuries to your newborn.