Obstetric Fistula
An obstetric fistula, otherwise known as a vaginal fistula, occurs when a hole develops between the rectum and vagina or between the bladder and vagina as a result of severe complications during childbirth. This is most prevalent if medical neglect has occurred.
This severe medical condition is usually caused when a prolonged labor presses the unborn child against the birth canal and cuts the blood flow off to the surrounding tissue, causing it to rot. Typically, emergency obstetric care can help prevent this from happening. But if the staff is not adequately trained or the necessary surgical equipment is not readily available, a fistula can occur.
Though fistulas are most common in developing nations, they are not completely unheard of in the United States. If this rare birth injury happened to you, you have a right to pursue your malpractice case under the law. Contact the experienced team of Philadelphia birth injury lawyers at the law offices of Lowenthal & Abrams, P.C. today by calling 215-238-1130.
Consequences of an Obstetric Fistula
Disorders related to an obstetric fistula include the following:
- Incontinence
- Severe infections
- Ulcerations of the vaginal tract
- Paralysis (caused by nerve damage)
- Infertility
If obstructed labor is left untreated or unrelieved, there is a greater chance that this can happen. The most common treatment of the presence of distressed labor of this form is a Caesarean section (C-section). Though C-sections are prevalent in America, it is the responsibility of the physician to realize when this procedure needs to be done and catch the problem before it is too late.
If you have been a victim of malpractice or neglect, and consequently developed a fistula and need intravaginal surgery, you may be able to reclaim some of the monetary, physical and emotional damages you experienced because of it.
Contact Us
To learn more about obstetric fistulas and other birth injuries, contact the Philadelphia birth injury attorneys of Lowenthal & Abrams, P.C. today by calling 215-238-1130.