While C-sections are the most common major surgery performed in the country, they carry serious potential risks for both mother and newborn. A C-section is a major surgery that involves the disruption of nearby organs and can put a tremendous stress on your body. Many medical malpractice claims involve injuries sustained during the procedure, as well as negligent after-care of your incision.
Your newborn may also sustain injuries during the C-section process including fractures, cuts or scrapes from the surgical implements, and brain damage if the procedure is not performed in a timely manner. Especially in the case of an emergency C-section, if the baby is not removed quickly, brain damage may occur due to lack of oxygen.
The risk of hemorrhage and increased blood loss is more prevalent with a C-section birth than with a typical vaginal birth. Adhesions are also a common complication of C-sections that can cause difficulties with future pregnancies if not monitored and treated properly. There is also the risk of anesthesia complications as with any type of surgery.
In cases of medical malpractice that lead to birth injuries during C-sections it is often a doctor’s negligence during the procedure that causes an immediate injury such as puncturing the bladder or bowels. In other cases, it may be neglect of proper post-operation follow up that causes incision infections, ruptures, or future complications in additional pregnancies.
An Ohio birth injury attorney can review your case and determine if your C-section complications were caused by medical neglect. You and your newborn do not need to suffer due to the negligence of a medical professional, especially when the injuries you sustain may be lifelong problems.