Birth Defects and Medical Malpractice

In the United States, a baby is born with a defect that occurs every four and quarter minutes. These defects can alter the lives of those who are affected for a lifetime.

The way that cases are classified and identified could lead to an over- or under-ascertainment of certain types of birth defects. A well-designed system incorporates active case ascertainment that includes medical record abstraction and birth Defect lawyer a clinical review and passive reporting.

Causes

If a baby is born with an injury or defect it can have serious health consequences for the child's life. Birth defects are often the result of an error in medical care or a medical error made by a doctor during pregnancy.

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

Certain birth defects are caused by genetic disorders that run in families. These are easily detected with the use of ultrasound or a blood test. Some of these diseases like PKU and sickle cell disease are treatable or prevented. Other birth defects are not known to have a origin and are referred to as congenital anomalies or congenital conditions.

Women over 30 and those of certain ethnicities are at a higher risk of birth defects. Couples who have a similar family history of genetic illness might consider consulting a genetic counselor prior to trying to become pregnant. This can help couples determine whether they require additional tests. Screening tests for newborns can reveal certain conditions, like critical congenital heart defects, as well as certain infections, that can be treated immediately.

Diagnosis

A birth defect is an abnormal growth that can affect any part of the body, affecting the way that organs work or the structure of the body. Birth defects can be detected by a healthcare provider during pregnancy, before birth or even in the early years of childhood. Some birth defects are visible such as cleft lips and craniofacial abnormalities and others are not as conspicuous such as congenital heart disease and biliary atresia (an obstruction of the duct that transports the bile into the liver).

Many birth defects can be identified by newborn screening tests, which are designed to detect certain health issues. PKU Congenital Hypothyroidism and sickle Cell Disease are among the conditions that can be identified through newborn screening tests. Newborn screening can also be used to detect genetic conditions such as Down syndrome. Some birth defects can easily be identified by a healthcare provider through ultrasounds and blood tests in pregnancy, based on the defect.

It's not always possible to determine the root of a birth defect. However, environmental factors are often involved. This can include exposure to prescription or non-prescription medicines, chemical substances that pollute the air and water in communities or a problem during pregnancy or the birth. Other times, birth defects are the result of a doctor failing to take appropriate measures to avoid or treat a medical disease. In these cases, a claim for medical malpractice could be pursued.

Treatment

If a birth defect is diagnosed, the treatment options vary depending on the type and severity of the defect. Certain defects can be corrected prior to a baby is born, while others may require surgery or other medical procedures after the baby is born.

The most frequent birth defects are chromosomal, resulting from missing or extra genes that are present in the cells of a person. These are usually inherited from the parents. The most common structural defects are cleft lips, neural tube defects, and heart problems. These are typically caused by problems with the development of a baby's organs, particularly during the first 3 months of pregnancy.

Screening tests for birth defects may be performed during pregnancy, after a person is born or later in life when symptoms start to show. These tests can be done through ultrasounds or blood tests. A person may also undergo an inherited test for birth defects to see whether they are susceptible to a specific condition.

Preventing birth defects isn't always easy. Certain birth defects result from complications that occur during pregnancy, whereas others can be traced to environmental factors. Birth defects may be caused by use of tobacco, alcohol or other drugs during pregnancy. Certain birth defects may be linked to the presence of chemicals in the environment. This includes pesticides and herbicides like Agent Orange, which was used during the Vietnam War between 1962 and 1971.

Compensation

Despite recent advances in medical science, birth defects and injuries are still a tragic reality. Many birth defects can be prevented. It is imperative to consult an experienced lawyer if you suspect a birth defect may be due to the negligence of medical experts. A medical malpractice lawyer who is caring and knowledgeable can help you comprehend the legal options that are available to you and seek compensation for the loss of your family as well as expenses.

Our team of skilled birth defect lawyers has years of experience in handling the claims of wrongful birth. Our firm is a solely plaintiff-only law practice, and we take pride on the high level of service we provide to our clients. We'll take the burden off your shoulders so that you can concentrate on your child and your family.

We can help you pursue damages, which include future and past medical expenses and income loss, punitive damages when necessary and emotional distress. Our lawyers will thoroughly research the case and will work tirelessly to ensure that your family receives the highest possible outcome.

Manufacturers of drugs are required to thoroughly test their products before releasing them on the market, and to inform consumers of possible adverse reactions. If the birth defects of your child were caused by a prescription drug, you can make a claim for product liability with the help of a birth defect lawyer.