Birth Defects and Medical Malpractice

In the United States, a baby is born with a defect that occurs every four and quarter minutes. These birth defects can have a lasting impact on the lives of the affected.

Variations in the way cases are classified and identified could lead to an over- or under-ascertainment of certain madras birth defect law firm defects that are subtypes. A well-designed surveillance system uses active case ascertainment (including medical record abstraction and clinical review) in addition to passive reporting.

Causes

A baby born with an injury or defect could cause long-term health issues. Birth defects are usually the result of a medical mistake or a medical error made by a doctor during pregnancy.

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

Some birth defects are the result of genetic disorders that run in families. They can be detected with the use of a blood test or an ultrasound. Some of these ailments can be prevented or treated, such as PKU as well as sickle cell diseases and cleft lip and palate. Other fergus falls birth defect lawyer defects have no known cause and are referred to as congenital abnormalities or congenital disorders.

Women who are over 30 and are of certain ethnicities have an increased chance of having birth defects. Couples with a similar family history of genetic disorders may consider seeing a genetic counselor prior to trying to become pregnant. This can help couples determine whether they require additional testing. Newborn screening tests can identify certain conditions, such as critical congenital heart defects and certain infections, which can be treated immediately.

Diagnosis

atherton birth defect law firm defects are abnormal growths that may affect any part of the human body. They can affect the way organs function or the structure of the individual. Birth defects can be detected by a healthcare professional during pregnancy, at birth or in early childhood. Some birth defects, like palates, lips or craniofacial defects, are easily visible. Some, however, aren't as obvious, such as congenital cardiac disease and biliary atresia (an obstructing of the duct which carries bile to the liver).

Many birth defect disorders can be identified through newborn screening tests that check for a variety of health issues. These include PKU, congenital hypothyroidism, and sickle cell disease. Newborn screening is also a way to identify certain genetic illnesses such as Down syndrome. Certain birth defects can be identified by a medical professional via ultrasounds and blood tests during pregnancy, depending on the type of defect.

It is not always possible to pinpoint the cause of a birth defect. However the environment is often associated with. This can include exposure to prescription or over-the-counter medications, chemical substances contaminating water and air in communities, or complications during pregnancy or delivery. Sometimes, birth defects happen because a doctor failed to make the necessary steps to prevent or treat an illness that is known to be medically prone. In these instances, a claim for medical malpractice could be pursued.

Treatment

When a birth defect is discovered, the treatment options differ based on the type and severity of the condition. Some defects can be addressed before the baby is born, while others might require surgery or other medical procedures after the baby is born.

Some of the most common birth defects are chromosomal, resulting from missing or extra genes that are present in the cells of a person. They are typically inherited from the parents. Birth defects that are structural include things like cleft lip and neural tube defects, as well as heart problems. These are typically caused by problems during the development of a baby's organs, particularly during the first three months of pregnancy.

Screening tests can be performed during pregnancy, or after birth. They can also be done later in life if signs begin to manifest. The tests can be carried out via ultrasounds and blood tests. A person may also undergo genetic tests for birth defects to determine if they are predisposed to a particular ailment.

It's not always easy to avoid birth defects. Certain birth defects result from complications that occur during pregnancy, whereas others can be linked to environmental factors. The use of tobacco, drugs or alcohol during pregnancy can cause birth defects. Some birth defects are linked to certain chemicals that are found in the natural environment, including herbicides and pesticides, for instance as Agent Orange used during the Vietnam War from 1962 to 1971.

Compensation

Despite recent advances in medical science, birth injuries and defects remain an unfortunate fact. Fortunately, many birth defects can be prevented. It is important to consult an experienced lawyer if you suspect birth defects could have been caused due to the negligence of medical professionals. A medical malpractice lawyer who is caring and knowledgeable will help you understand the legal options that you have and pursue compensation for your family's losses and expenses.

Our team of highly skilled birth defect lawyers has years of experience handling cases of wrongful birth. We are a plaintiffs-only company and are proud of the level of service that we offer our clients. We will take the burden off your shoulders so you can concentrate on your child and your family.

We can assist you in pursuing compensation for losses, including past and future medical expenses, loss of income, punitive damages, in some cases as well as emotional distress. Our lawyers will thoroughly research the case and work tirelessly to ensure that your family receives the best possible result.

Manufacturers of drugs are required to ensure that their products are tested thoroughly before putting them on market and to inform consumers of potential side effects. If your child's birth defects were caused by a prescription drug, you may bring a lawsuit for product liability with the assistance of a birth defect lawyer.