Birth Defects and Medical Malpractice

In the United States, a baby is born with a defect that occurs every four and a quarter minutes. These defects can affect the lives of those affected for the rest of their lives.

Differences in how cases are identified and classified can lead to an over- or under-ascertainment of certain types of birth defects. A well-designed system includes active case assessment, including medical record abstraction and clinical review as well as passive reporting.

Causes

A baby born with injuries or defects could be ill-health for a long time. Peoria Birth Defect Attorney defects can result from a medical error or negligence of doctors during pregnancy.

In some instances birth defects can be prevented through the prenatal care and a healthy diet. In other instances they may be caused by environmental factors such as exposure to harmful chemicals or toxic substances. Birth defects are also caused by complications that occur during pregnancy, including constriction of the uterus, rupture of the amniotic sac, or an insufficient supply of oxygen to the foetus (also called anoxic brain injury).

Some birth defects are caused by genetic illnesses which run in families. These can be detected by the use of ultrasound or a blood test. Some of these illnesses like PKU and sickle cell disease, can be treated or prevented. Certain birth defects aren't recognized to be the cause. They are called congenital disorders or congenital anomalies.

Women who are older than 30 and of certain ethnicities are at a higher chance of having birth defects. Couples with a similar history of genetic diseases might want to speak with a genetic counselor before attempting to conceive. This will help them determine if additional testing is needed. Newborn screening tests are able to detect certain conditions like congenital defects that are critical and certain infections that could be treated right away.

Diagnosis

Birth defects are abnormal growths that could affect any part of the human body. They can impact the way organs function or the structure of the individual. Healthcare professionals can detect birth defects during pregnancy as well as after the baby is born, or in early childhood. Some birth defects are visible, like cleft lips and craniofacial abnormalities however others are more evident, such as congenital heart disease and biliary atresia (an obstruction of the duct carrying the bile into the liver).

Many birth defects are diagnosed through newborn screening tests, which are designed to detect certain health problems. PKU and congenital hypothyroidism and sickle Cell Disease are just a few of the conditions that can be identified through newborn screening tests. Newborn screening can also detect certain genetic diseases like Down syndrome. A doctor can detect some birth defects through ultrasounds during pregnancy as well as blood tests, depending on the type of defect.

It's not always possible to determine the cause of birth defects, but it is often associated with environmental factors. This could include exposure to prescription or over-the-counter medicines, chemical substances that contaminate the air and water of communities, or complications arising during pregnancy or delivery. Other times birth defects may be caused by a medical professional not taking appropriate steps to avoid or treat a medical health condition. In these instances medical malpractice claims can be pursued.

Treatment

When a birth defect has been recognized, the treatment options differ based on the type and severity of the issue. Certain birth defects can be rectified before the baby is born. Others may require surgery or medical intervention after the baby is born.

Some of the most common disorders are the chromosomal. They are caused by the presence of extra or missing genes within cells of a person. These are typically passed down from parents. These include cleft lips or neural tube defects and heart problems. These are typically caused by issues with the development of the baby's organs and tissues, particularly in the first three months of pregnancy.

Screening tests can be performed during pregnancy or after birth. They can also be performed later in life if signs begin to show. These tests are conducted through ultrasounds or blood tests. A person can have a genetic test for birth defects to determine if they are predisposed to a particular disease.

Preventing birth defects is not always easy. Some birth defects are caused by complications that can occur during pregnancy, while others are linked to environmental factors. Birth defects are often caused by the use of alcohol, tobacco or other drugs during pregnancy. Some birth defects can be linked to the presence of chemicals in the environment. This includes pesticides as well as herbalicides, such as Agent Orange, which was used during the Vietnam War between 1962 and 1971.

Compensation

Despite recent advances in medical science, trenton birth defect law firm injuries and defects continue to be an unsettling fact. Fortunately most birth defects can be prevented. It is essential to speak with an experienced lawyer if you suspect the birth defect could have been caused due to the negligence of medical experts. An empathetic and knowledgeable medical malpractice attorney can help you comprehend your legal options and pursue compensation to cover your family's costs and losses.

Our team of experienced birth defect lawyers have many years of experience in settling the claims of wrongful birth. Our firm is a plaintiff-only law practice and we pride ourselves on the exceptional service we offer to our clients. We will take the burden off your shoulders so you can concentrate on your child and your family.

We can help you pursue damages, which include past and future medical expenses as well as loss of income, punitive damages in certain circumstances and emotional stress. Our attorneys will thoroughly investigate your case and work hard to ensure the best possible outcome for your family.

Drug manufacturers must ensure that their products are tested thoroughly before releasing them on the public, and they must inform consumers about any potential side consequences. If, however your child's birth defect was caused by a drug you could make a claim for product liability with the assistance of a birth defect lawyer for drugs.