Complications from Vacuum Delivery
A vacuum delivery is a common procedure in which a particularly difficult childbirth is assisted by a suction-cup device that attaches to the infant’s head and helps to fully extract him or her from the womb. In many regions of the globe, vacuum deliveries have slowly begun to replace forceps as the preferred means of physically facilitating birth. Advocates cite the comparative ease with which the suction cup method is learned, as well as the quicker delivery, less discomfort and genital trauma to the mother, and decreased need for anesthetic.
However, as with all birth procedures, vacuum deliveries are not without their fair share of risks. Compared to forceps, these operations come with a greater number of potential complications pertaining to the child, including:
- Cephalohematoma, in which blood collects between the bone and a tight layer of surrounding tissue called the periosteum
- Retinal Hemorrhage (bleeding from the eye)
- Various forms of palsy, or paralysis usually accompanied by loss of sensation in a particular body part and uncontrolled body movements
- Decreased rate of successful vaginal delivery
Obviously, the risks listed above are extremely serious. Although significant improvements are being made in the field of assisted-birth technology, some studies are emerging that question the necessity of these procedures, especially given the greater cost and possibility of complication.
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Doctors and other licensed health care providers are required to provide adequate information before performing any sort of operation during birth. They are also held to certain standards of performance and judgment.
If you or someone you love has been affected by a birth injury related to vacuum delivery, you deserve to know whether your health care provider was in someway at fault. Contact the experienced team of Philadelphia birth injury lawyers at the Law Offices of Lowenthal & Abrams, P.C. today by calling at 215-238-1130 for more information on your case.