Cerebral palsy is caused by brain injuries which can occur before, during, or shortly after birth. While many of these brain injuries may result from factors outside doctors’ control, in some cases doctors’ negligence or medical malpractice results in children suffering from cerebral palsy.
Types of Brain Malformation which can Cause Cerebral Palsy
From its inception, a baby’s brain grows at an incredible rate. This growth and development does not stop, even after the baby is born. Any injury or influence which causes the brain to malfunction or become malformed can result in a child experiencing significant developmental delays. More serious injuries can result in the child suffering from permanent disabilities, such as cerebral palsy.
It could be argued that no two cases of cerebral palsy are exactly the same. But almost all cases share some common traits. There are just a few of the ways in which brain malfunctions can result in cerebral palsy:
- Disturbance of brain cell migration before birth – As the developing baby’s brain grows, cells in the brain travel to their respective areas of the brain. The child may develop cerebral palsy if this process is disturbed.
- Poor development of insulation for developing brain cells – When a developing baby’s brain cell insulation (myelination) does not form properly, the brain may not function properly because the myelin is needed for proper signal transmission.
- Damaged brain connections (synapses) – There are multiple ways that a child’s brain connections (synapses) may be damaged. The result of such damage could be the onset of cerebral palsy.
- Brain cell death – When a baby is in the process of being born, he or she may suffer from an injury which causes the brain to be deprived of oxygen or suffer from blood vessel rupture. These conditions could result in the death of vital brain cells and the onset of cerebral palsy.
Causes of Brain Trauma during Birth
When a child suffers from any of the above-listed trauma, the result may be the onset of cerebral palsy.
A partial list of the causes of the above-listed brain malformation and malfunctions include:
- Blood compatibility issues
- Cephalopelvic disproportion
- Gestational diabetes
- Infections, including STDs
- Medical instrument errors
- Medications and medication errors
- Placental abruption
- Preeclampsia
- Prolonged labor
- Umbilical cord problems
Brain Trauma during Birth and Medical Negligence
Many of the above-listed causes of brain trauma during birth may be caused by the negligence of medical professionals. For example, if your attending physician makes a mistake while delivering your child using forceps, such an error could result in significant injury to your child.
If you believe that your child’s cerebral palsy results from medical malpractice or negligence, you may be entitled to compensation which can help you cope with your child’s disabilities. Contact an experienced birth injury attorney today to discuss your pregnancy and birth process, and to learn if you may be entitled to claim such compensation.
