By definition, "Birth Trauma" can involve any part or portion of the mothers or the childs body, including any organs or limbs. The more severe forms of Birth Trauma usually involve injury to the brain and/or the nervous system. The brain requires a large amount of oxygen to survive and to function and is the primary center for regulating and coordinating all body activities. The transmission of oxygen to the brain from the respiratory system is crucial to maintenance of the brain and support of its vital functions. Birth Trauma can result from mechanical injury, such as the improper application of obstetrical forceps to a baby's head during the birth process. Severe, moderate or mild damage to the brain caused by low oxygen supply (hypoxia or anoxia) during labor may cause permanent injury and a variety of neurological problems.

The incidence of Birth Trauma that causes lasting injury to babies has been estimated at 2 to 7 per 1,000 live births, or roughly 0.5%. Factors which predispose the infant to Birth Trauma include an abnormally large body, a disproportionately large head, a difficult labor, prolonged labor, and the presentation of the buttocks (breech birth) instead of the head in childbirth. Overall, 5 to 8 newborn infants per 100,000 die of mechanical injury, while about 25 per 100,000 die of hypoxic injuries

Birth trauma refers to a collection of injuries that can occur just before, during, or immediately following birth. Birth trauma injuries include cerebral palsy, Erb's palsy, shoulder dystocia, and brain damage. Birth trauma can occur when the flow of blood (and thus of oxygen) is inhibited during birth. When this occurs, the attending physician must act quickly to prevent permanent injury. Special techniques or a caesarian may be necessary. When the physician fails to act appropriately during a birth trauma situation, he or she may be guilty of medical negligence. Because the results of birth trauma injuries are often devastating to families both emotionally and financially, the law seeks to protect victims. If your child has been the victim of a birth trauma injury, we can help. Our attorneys have advanced medical as well as legal training that may help you in your case.