Fetal Asphyxia and Hypoxemia

Birth trauma and birth injury are particularly difficult and complex medical malpractice cases. Statistics reveal that newborns are more susceptible to asphyxia and require resuscitation more than any other age group. It is extremely important for a physician to appreciate the danger signs and treat this condition immediately. A temporary suspension of breathing can either be what is known as primary or secondary. If it is primary, it will consist of rapid, shallow breathing followed by cessation of all respiratory movement. If respiratory movement stops, the heart rate will fall and fetal blood pressure begins to rise. A quick response to this asphyxia is critical. Even after oxygen is provided to induce respiration, secondary suspension of breathing can result. The onset of this usually involves gasping respirations, a continued decrease in heart rate and low blood pressure.

If this occurs, the newborn likely will not respond to stimulation and positive pressure ventilation with oxygen is called for immediately. Failure to monitor the breathing of a newborn and allowing the infant to suffer suspension of breathing can result in significant brain injury to the newborn. Diabetes, hypertension, infection, pre term birth, abnormal presentation of the fetus at delivery, premature labor, early rupture of the membranes, use of narcotics, prolapsed umbilical cord, meconium presence and/or aspiration, placenta previa or abruption are some of the factors that might predispose a newborn to possible breathing issues. Apgar scores offer a way of measuring the amount of asphyxia sometimes. Asphyxia is considered to be one of the most significant causes of cerebral palsy in infants.

The experienced medical malpractice attorney can review the medical records of the delivery and look to see if appropriate monitoring of the baby and mother was performed, if appropriate tests were undertaken when necessary, if proper treatment was rendered when required and whether there was adequate care of the baby after birth.

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