BIRTH INJURIES CAUSED BY MISUSE OF A VACUUM OR FORCEPS

When a mother is having difficulty delivering her infant, the attending doctor may choose to use a vacuum extractor or forceps to assist with delivery. Forceps resemble large salad tongs and are used to guide the baby’s head out of the birth canal. To use a vacuum extractor, a physician will apply a small suction cup to the top of a baby’s head. The vacuum pump provides suction to help the doctor pull the child out.  Use of these instruments should be used only when the baby has descended down the birth canal to the point where the head is at the pelvic outlet.

In some cases, the mother is simply too tired to continue pushing, or there may be other complications that leave the mother unable to deliver on her own. The infant may be too large, or could be stuck in the birth canal. While vacuums and forceps can be crucial to a successful delivery, they can be harmful if misused.

Common forceps and vacuum extractor errors

Vacuum extractors have become the main assisting tool for difficult deliveries, but some physicians still use forceps. If used correctly, both tools are considered safe. Unfortunately, serious injuries could occur if an OB/GYN:

• Applies the instrument when the baby is too high in the birth canal
• Misplaces the vacuum suction cup
• Uses too much vacuum suction
• Applies too much pressure with forceps
• Misplaces the forceps location
• Excessively twists or pulls the child
• Uses a vacuum extractor for too long or too many times
• Uses the tools too early in the delivery process

The FDA and other agencies have issued warnings and guidelines that help govern the use of these tools. Physicians should follow these guidelines carefully. Doctors also have the duty to warn parents of the risks associated with forceps and vacuum extractor deliveries.

Forceps and vacuum injuries

Depending on how the tool was misused, a number of birth injuries could occur. Since forceps and vacuum extractors both involve the baby’s head, brain, neck, and shoulder, injuries are known to occur. This includes brachial plexus injuries such as shoulder dystocia, Erb’s Palsy, or Klumpke’s Palsy. Brain hemorrhages, also known as brain bleeds, can occur as well. A child could also endure skull fractures or retinal hemorrhages.

If your child was delivered via a vacuum extractor or forceps, keep a close eye on him or her after delivery for signs of abnormalities. Since injuries vary widely, symptoms also range quite a bit, but may include physical symptoms, such as floppy limbs or spastic movements. Parents who suspect malpractice should contact an attorney for help.

Birth injury lawyers in Baltimore and Washington D.C. are on your side

While doctors and hospitals are quick to shift the blame elsewhere, the attorneys at Schochor, Federico and Staton, P.A. know when to spot negligent behavior. We are ready to work for you and your family if your child has suffered a preventable birth injury. To speak with a member of our Washington D.C. or Baltimore staff, call 410-234-1000 today.
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