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Austin Hypoxic Ischemic Encephalopathy (HIE) Lawyers

Hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) is a serious condition related to a lack of oxygen that infants can suffer during the delivery process. HIE often results from medical negligence. At Winckler, Harvey & McConnell, LLP, our attorneys are dedicated to holding negligent medical providers accountable for every case we handle. We strive to secure the compensation for families with infants suffering injuries resulting for medical negligence. We have more than 100 years of experience representing clients in medical malpractice claims and provide information and guidance to our clients. Our Austin HIE attorneys regrettably cannot help everyone because of how difficult medical negligence cases are to bring, but our screening process during your free initial consultation will determine if you have a case we can take.

What Is Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy (HIE)?

HIE is a serious brain injury caused by a lack of oxygen and blood flow to an infant’s brain during or shortly after birth. Infants who suffer from this can experience developmental delays, mental disabilities, and other lifelong complications, though a swift diagnosis and medical action can minimize the consequences.

How Is HIE Caused?

HIE can arise from various complications during pregnancy, labor and delivery. Common causes include:

  • Umbilical cord complications: Issues such as a prolapsed or compressed umbilical cord can severely restrict oxygen and blood flow to the baby’s brain.
  • Placental abruption: The premature detachment of the placenta from the uterus can deprive the baby of essential oxygen and nutrients.
  • Prolonged labor: Extended labor can increase the risk of oxygen deprivation to the baby’s brain.
  • Maternal health conditions: Conditions like preeclampsia, gestational diabetes or infections can contribute to the development of HIE.
  • Medical negligence: Failure to properly monitor the baby’s condition or to respond promptly to signs of fetal distress can lead to HIE.

If you believe your child suffered HIE as a result of medical malpractice during delivery or after, speak to an Austin medical malpractice lawyer right away to learn about your legal options.

How Can You Prove Your Baby’s HIE Resulted From Medical Malpractice?

Proving that your baby’s HIE resulted from medical malpractice involves showing that the standard of care was not met during pregnancy, labor or delivery. Key steps include:

  • Reviewing medical records
  • Consulting medical experts
  • Documenting fetal distress
  • Identifying delayed interventions
  • Analyzing maternal health management

If your infant’s injuries are the result of negligence, you may have a right to file a claim against all negligent parties for monetary compensation. HIE claims are intricate with many layers of proof required for a successful outcome. The first step is speaking with an experienced medical malpractice attorney to determine if you have a case.

Contact Winckler, Harvey & McConnell, LLP, For A Free Consultation

To discuss your circumstances, schedule a free initial consultation with our lawyers. Call us at 512-593-7399 or email us here.