The cranial nerves are nerves which extend from the brain’s cerebrum and brain stem and they control several different functions.  One of these functions is the control of muscle movement in the face.

If the cranial nerves are damaged, the facial muscles may be affected, resulting in partial facial paralysis.  In addition, damage to these nerves can result in asymmetry in the face, difficulty moving the facial muscles and making certain expressions, reduced taste, and reduced production of saliva.

Cranial nerve damage can occur during the delivery of a newborn for a couple of reasons.  The most common ways an infant can suffer damage to the cranial nerves and develop facial paralysis are the incorrect use of forceps in a delivery and dangerous positioning of the fetus during delivery.

Contact the Philadelphia facial paralysis attorneys of Lowenthal & Abrams, P.C. at 215-238-1130 today, if your child suffered facial paralysis as the result of negligence during their delivery.