Vacuum extraction is a common procedure used to assist with delivery when labor stalls or complications arise. It involves attaching a soft or rigid cup to the baby’s head and using suction to guide them out of the birth canal during contractions.
While it can save lives when used correctly, mistakes during vacuum extraction can lead to serious and sometimes life-altering injuries to both the mother and child.
What could go wrong?
Birth injuries from vacuum-assisted deliveries often occur due to errors such as improper techniques, using the procedure in a situation where it’s not safe or appropriate or even continuing with it even if it’s not working.
Newborns may suffer severe injuries like:
- Scalp and skull injuries: Cuts, swelling or even skull fractures can result from poor handling or wrong techniques
- Brain injuries: A traumatic delivery may lead to intracranial hemorrhaging or oxygen deprivation, increasing the risk of conditions like cerebral palsy
- Nerve damage: Excessive pulling can injure the baby’s facial or brachial nerves, potentially resulting in paralysis
Mothers, too, are not immune to the dangers of a vacuum extraction gone wrong. Mistakes can lead to severe vaginal tears or lacerations, uterine rupture and long-term complications like pelvic organ prolapse or infections.
Proving negligence can be complex
Establishing that negligence in the delivery room caused harm requires detailed medical evidence and expert analysis. This process can be overwhelming, especially when you’re coping with the emotional and physical aftermath of a traumatic delivery.
Seeking legal guidance can help you navigate these challenges and build a strong case. While nothing can undo the damage caused, holding the responsible parties accountable and securing the resources you need to move forward can offer some sense of closure.