Preventable Vacuum Extractor Injuries in New York

Given the right delivery conditions and a doctor skilled in using a vacuum extractor, babies only suffer minor injuries, if any at all, during vacuum extractor deliveries. Unfortunately, New York physicians sometimes use vacuum extractors improperly or during inappropriate circumstances, and babies suffer serious injuries that are otherwise preventable. If you suspect this was the case in your childbirth, consult with our New York City lawyers at Rich & Rich, P.C. We have more than 45 years of legal experience, focus our practice on injury cases and can provide the skills necessary to be successful in medical malpractice cases.

Vacuum extractors and their use

Vacuum extractors work based on suction, using either a soft or hard cup that attaches to the babies head. When the mother is overly tired, has a physical condition that makes it hard to push or the labor is prolonged, a vacuum extractor can help pull the baby through the birth canal. Doctors should only use vacuum extractors during the second stage of labor. When performed correctly, the baby suffers no injury.

How vacuum extractor injuries can occur

Under the following circumstances or vacuum extractor use, the baby may be at risk for birth injury:

  • Doctors spend more than 20 minutes or two to three pulls trying to pull out the baby
  • The baby is not yet in stage two of the labor
  • The baby is breech or in an abnormal position
  • The infant is premature
  • Scalp or head defects or injuries were visible in an ultasound

Injuries that can result from vacuum extraction

Common injuries result when doctors use vacuum extraction under the wrong circumstances or are inexperienced in using the device. They include:

  • Cephalohematoma
  • Subgaleal hemorrhage (bleeding between the scalp and skull)
  • Cerebral palsy
  • Brain hemorrhage
  • Brain or head bruising or swelling
  • Scalp abrasions
  • Blindness
  • Brachial plexus (damage to nerves extending from neck and shoulders through arm)
  • Facial nerve damage
  • Stroke

Your rights to compensation

When a baby suffers vacuum extractor injuries because the doctor failed to follow standard medical procedures, our New York attorneys at Rich & Rich, P.C. can help you bring legal action. Our team of professionals, which includes medical experts, can investigate, assess the damages and assist in building a strong case. We offer a free consultation to discuss your baby’s injuries and how we can help.

Don’t wait. Contact Rich & Rich, P.C. today.