A couple from Cook County, Illinois, sued the University of Chicago Medical Center for alleged medical negligence that resulted in their daughter suffering permanent birth injuries.
The lawsuit was filed against the medical center and two of its doctors in Cook County Circuit Court on Oct. 27. According to the complaint, the doctors allegedly used excessive traction when delivering the couple’s baby on Feb. 18, 2011.
The child was born with brachial plexus palsy in which her right arm was paralyzed due to the spinal nerves in her shoulder and neck being damaged. The couple is seeking damages in excess of $50,000 in addition to legal expenses.
There are a number of factors that can cause such birth injuries during the delivery process. Brachial plexus palsy can occur due to the baby’s shoulders being pulled with excessive force during a head-first delivery, or the head and neck being stretched while the newborn passes through the birth canal.
In many cases, brachial plexus injuries are the result of the doctor or hospital staff’s negligence. Most injuries can be avoided by monitoring the mother’s prenatal status for possible risk factors and providing her with proper medical attention both before and during the delivery.
Paul Greenberg is a Chicago birth injury lawyer with Briskman Briskman & Greenberg. To learn more call 1.877.595.4878 or visit www.briskmanandbriskman.com.