Winckler, Harvey & McConnell, LLP

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Austin Shoulder Dystocia Lawyers

A split-second negligent decision during the childbirth process can cause a lifetime of complications for the infant and their family. When medical malpractice harms a child, it takes swift action from an experienced legal team to hold the liable party accountable for their actions. At Winckler, Harvey & McConnell, LLP, we have over 100 years of combined experience representing families throughout the Austin area.

What Is Shoulder Dystocia?

Shoulder dystocia is a type of birth injury that a small percentage of babies incur where one or both of their shoulders becomes stuck in the mother’s pelvis. The baby then becomes wedged in the birth canal, and the pressure of the mother’s body during delivery could break the baby’s arm or collarbone; damage nerves in the shoulder, arm or hand; and deprive them of oxygen. Texas residents may want to know more to determine if their baby has this condition.

How Common Is Shoulder Dystocia?

Shoulder dystocia occurs in less than 2% of natural births. Despite this low number, medical staff must do what they can to avoid this condition.

What Conditions Can Lead To Shoulder Dystocia?

Several factors can increase the risk of shoulder dystocia, including:

  • Improper use of delivery tools, like an incorrect application of forceps or vacuum extractors
  • Failure to monitor fetal size by not accurately assessing the baby’s size through ultrasounds
  • Failing to perform a timely cesarean section when indicated
  • Poor handling of prolonged labor or failure to recognize signs of fetal distress
  • Not ensuring the mother is in an optimal position for delivery

Newborn injuries do not always result in an actionable medical malpractice claim. Speak to an experienced medical malpractice attorney to learn about your legal options. At Winckler, Harvey & McConnell, LLP, our lawyers provide a free consultation to discuss your unique circumstance.

Complications That Arise From Shoulder Dystocia

Shoulder dystocia can lead to several severe complications, including:

These and other consequences can have long-term physical, emotional financial costs. Our experienced attorneys and on-staff nurse paralegals can evaluate your medical malpractice claim to see if your child’s injuries qualify to file a claim for compensation.

Can You Sue For Shoulder Dystocia?

Yes, you can sue for shoulder dystocia if it is the result of medical negligence. This includes healthcare providers failing to follow the standard of care, not anticipating or managing shoulder dystocia properly, or delaying necessary interventions. By establishing the duty of care owed to your child, the breach of that standard care and the harm caused by the breach, a strong claim may be able to go forward to seek compensation through negotiation or litigation. During a free consultation, the shoulder dystocia lawyers at Winckler, Harvey & McConnell, LLP, can best determine if you have grounds to move forward with a medical negligence claim.

Reach Out To Our Austin Shoulder Dystocia Attorneys For A Free Consultation

If you believe your child suffers from dystocia or other complications resulting from medical malpractice, contact our Texas attorneys to discuss your legal options. Call us at 512-593-7399 or email us here to schedule your initial consultation today.