Improper Use of Vacuum Extraction Devices

When labor takes too long or becomes too difficult for the mother, a physician may choose to use a vacuum extraction device to help with the delivery. If it is not done properly, however, the procedure may result in serious harm. If you or your baby were harmed during a vacuum extraction delivery, it is important to contact a skilled Baltimore birth injury lawyer who can help you understand your rights. At Arfaa Law Group, we have extensive experience handling birth injury cases, and Julia Arfaa knows what it takes to hold a negligent medical professional accountable.

Vacuum extraction involves applying a vacuum to the baby’s head while bringing the baby down the pelvic canal. Put another way, the process involves placing a cup-like device on the baby’s head to pull them from the womb with a suction mechanism. The procedure is typically used during a contraction in the second stage of labor. Due to the risks, vacuum extraction should only be used in limited situations. If it is not conducted properly, serious injuries may take place during the vacuum extraction process, including:

• Head injuries;
• Shoulder dystocia;
• Shoulder dislocation;
• Broken bones;
• Cuts and bruises to the scalp;
• Nerve damage;
• Muscle damage; and
• Brain bleeding.

While not every negative outcome is a result of medical malpractice, the negligence of a health care provider is often to blame for injuries caused during a vacuum-assisted delivery. Under Maryland law, medical malpractice takes place when a health care provider fails to meet the standard of appropriate medical practice in the specialty in which that health care provider practices. Moreover, when vacuum extraction injuries are not addressed promptly or are misdiagnosed, further injuries may occur. This may also form the basis of a malpractice claim.

Understanding what went wrong and how it contributed to a child’s injuries tends to be complex and technical. As a result, retaining a knowledgeable and qualified expert witness is important to explain to the jury what happened. At Arfaa Law Group, we have relationships with many experts in the field of birth injuries and medical malpractice, and we recognize the importance of their testimony to building a strong case.

The Maryland medical malpractice statute requires that an individual with a potential claim first file that claim with the Director of the Health Claims Arbitration Office. The plaintiff is also required to file a certificate of qualified expert, outlining the defendant’s deviation from the relevant standard of care and the manner in which it caused the victim’s injuries.

The birth of a child may go from a joyous occasion to a terrifying event if the child’s health is at risk. If your child suffered an injury because of the improper use of a vacuum extraction device, you should reach out to a Baltimore lawyer who can meticulously evaluate the circumstances of your case. At Arfaa Law Group, we can help you pursue the compensation that you deserve for your injuries and losses. We represent people across the State of Maryland who need a medical malpractice attorney. For more information about your legal rights and options, call 410-889-1850 or contact us online.