Cerebral palsy is a motor disability that affects an individual's ability to walk, maintain their balance, and control their movements and posture. This disorder is caused by damage to the brain before it is finished developing. Many cases of cerebral palsy appear during infancy and the early childhood years.

While some cases of cerebral palsy have no definitive cause, others are caused by medical malpractice that leads to oxygen deprivation of the brain. Keep reading for more information about cerebral palsy cases caused by medical malpractice.

Medical Malpractice Related to Cerebral Palsy Can Occur at Different Times

It's a misconception that medical malpractice that causes cerebral palsy only occurs when the child is born. While it is possible for oxygen deprivation during birth to cause cerebral palsy, this only comprises a portion of medical malpractice events.

Medical malpractice can also occur prior to birth and post-birth. Prior to the child's birth, neglecting to treat complications in the pregnancy can result in the fetus being deprived of ample oxygen for proper brain development.

Untreated placental abnormalities are one example of a pre-birth complication that can lead to cerebral palsy if not properly managed. If the mother suffers an infection during pregnancy that isn't detected and appropriately treated, this can also cause cerebral palsy.

Post-birth medical malpractice can result in some type of activity that temporarily deprives the brain of oxygen, such as a stroke, meningitis, or other forms of brain trauma. This can result in a specific form of cerebral palsy known as acquired cerebral palsy.

It's Best to Consult with an Attorney Sooner Rather Than Later

If you have concerns that your child's cerebral palsy is related to medical malpractice, it's best to meet with an attorney as soon as you can. Your attorney will listen to the details of your case and make recommendations as to whether or not you have a case, and if so, what should be done so you have ample evidence to support your case. If there's evidence your child's cerebral palsy was caused by medical malpractice, your attorney will conduct a thorough investigation.

For example, some cases of cerebral palsy that occur due to birth injuries are caused due to improper delivery techniques. The doctor may have ignored evidence that indicated the baby should be born via cesarean section or used improper delivery tools to hasten the delivery process.

A lack of monitoring during labor may have caused changes in the baby's heart rate while in-utero to go undetected. The investigation will examine the medical care your child received prior, during, and post-birth.

For more information, contact a law office like Shaevitz Shaevitz & Kotzamanis.