Birth Defects and Medical Malpractice

In the United States, a baby is born with a defect every four and a quarter minutes. These defects can have a lifelong effect on the lives of those affected.

Different ways in which cases are classified and identified can lead to either under or over-ascertaining certain birth defects that are subtypes. A well-designed surveillance system employs active case ascertainment (including medical record abstraction and clinical review) in addition to passive reporting.

Causes

When a baby is born with an injury or defect it could have serious health consequences for the child for life. Birth defects are usually the result of an error in medicine or a medical error made by a doctor during pregnancy.

In certain cases birth defects can be avoided with prenatal care and proper nutrition. In some instances birth defects may be caused by environmental factors like exposure to harmful chemicals or toxic substances. Birth defects may also be caused by complications that arise during pregnancy, such as uterine constraint rupture of the amniotic sac, or an insufficient supply of oxygen to the foetus (also known as anoxic brain injury).

Some birth defects are caused by genetic disorders that are passed down through families. These are easily identified through a blood test or an ultrasound. Some of these illnesses like PKU and sickle cell disease, can be treated or prevented. Some birth defects aren't identified as a cause. They are referred to as congenital disorders, or congenital abnormalities.

Women who are older than 30 and those of certain ethnicities are at an increased risk of developing certain Birth Defect Attorney defects. Couples with the same genetic disorders may want to speak with a genetic counselor prior to trying to get pregnant. This can help couples decide if they need to undergo additional testing. Newborn screening tests can identify certain conditions, such as critical congenital heart defects, as well as certain infections, which are treatable immediately.

Diagnosis

A birth defect is an abnormal growth that affects any body part which can affect the way organs work or the structure of the body. A healthcare professional can spot birth defects during pregnancy as well as after the baby is born, or even during early childhood. Certain birth defects, like palates, lips or craniofacial anomalies, are apparent. Some, however, aren't as obvious, such as congenital heart disease and biliary atresia (an obstructing of the duct that transports the bile to the liver).

Many birth defects are diagnosed by newborn screening tests, that look for specific health issues. PKU Congenital Hypothyroidism and sickle cell disease are just a few of the conditions that can be identified through newborn screening tests. Newborn screening is also a way to identify certain genetic illnesses such as Down syndrome. A doctor can detect certain birth defects using ultrasounds during pregnancy and blood tests, based on the type of defect.

It's not always certain what caused birth defects, but it is usually linked to environmental factors. This could include exposure to prescription or over-the-counter medicines, chemical substances that pollute the air and water in communities, or complications during pregnancy or birth. Other times, birth defects are caused by a medical professional failing to take appropriate measures to avoid or treat a medical health condition. In these instances medical malpractice lawsuits can be pursued.

Treatment

Treatment options for a suspected birth defect are based on the severity and nature of the defect. Certain defects can be corrected prior to a baby is born, while others might require surgery or other medical interventions after the baby is born.

Most of the most prevalent defects are chromosomal. They are caused by the presence of extra or missing genes that are present in cells of a person. They usually come from the parents. Birth defects that are structural include things like cleft lip, neural tube defects and heart problems. They are typically caused by issues during the development of the baby's organs and tissues, particularly during the first 3 months of pregnancy.

Screening tests may be performed during pregnancy, or after birth. They may also be conducted later on in life when symptoms start to appear. These tests can be performed by ultrasounds or blood tests. One can also take a genetic test for birth defects to see whether they are susceptible to a particular condition.

Preventing birth defects isn't always easy. Certain birth defects result from complications that happen during pregnancy, while other are linked to environmental factors. The consumption of tobacco, drugs or alcohol during pregnancy may result in birth defects. Some birth defects can also be attributed to chemicals that are present in the environment. These include pesticides as well as herbalicides such as Agent Orange, which was used during the Vietnam War between 1962 and 1971.

Compensation

Despite recent advancements in medical technology, birth defects and injuries remain a tragic fact. Fortunately most birth defects can be avoided. It is essential to speak with an experienced lawyer if you suspect a birth defect may be the result of the negligence of medical professionals. A compassionate and knowledgeable medical malpractice attorney can help you understand your legal options and seek compensation to help cover the costs of your family and losses.

Our team of skilled birth defect lawyers have years of experience dealing with cases of birth defects that are not correct. Our firm is a plaintiff-only practice and we pride ourselves on the high level of service we provide to our clients. We will take the burden off your shoulders so you can focus on your child and your family.

We can assist you in obtaining compensation for any damages, including past and future medical costs as well as lost income, damages for punitive in certain circumstances, and emotional stress. Our lawyers will investigate your case and will work tirelessly to ensure the best outcome for your family.

Drug manufacturers must thoroughly test their products before releasing them to the market, and inform consumers of any possible side negative effects. If the birth defects of your child were caused by a pharmaceutical drug, you may bring a lawsuit for product liability with the assistance of a birth defect lawyer.