Minnesota HIE Lawyer
Hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy, otherwise known as HIE, is the fifth leading cause of death in children under the age of five, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). HIE refers to oxygen deprivation in the brain and it is a very common birth injury sustained by infants during the labor and birthing process. The condition is not always diagnosed right away. Sometimes, it takes weeks or or months to diagnose a child who has suffered from it. Regardless of when a child is diagnosed, they will typically require lifelong care and accommodation.
As the parent of a child born with HIE, you do have legal options. The condition is typically a result of medical malpractice and so, you can file a claim against the negligent healthcare provider who is to blame. A Minnesota HIE lawyer can guide you through the process so you and your family claim the full settlement you deserve.
Common Causes of HIE
HIE is generally a result of medical malpractice, but that type of negligence comes in many forms. The most common causes of HIE are as follows:
- High-risk pregnancy improperly managed: Preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, and other medical complications during pregnancy place expectant women into a higher-risk category of pregnancy. Proper monitoring and treatment can sometimes prevent these conditions and even when they cannot, high-risk pregnancies must still be properly managed or a child may suffer from HIE.
- Complications involving the placenta: The placenta is the lifeline for an unborn child. If it separates from the uterus, covers too much of the cervix, or cannot deliver sufficient amounts of nutrients and blood to the child, it can result in HIE.
- Infections: Maternal infections can easily spread to an infant if proper measures are not taken. When screening is not done and proper medications are not administered, the child may suffer from HIE.
- Prolonged labor: Labor can take a long time but when it goes for too long, it puts the child and mother in danger. Doctors must order Cesarean sections (C-sections) as soon as possible to prevent further harm.
Unfortunately, the above are just a few of the most common causes of HIE. Parents do not always know what occurred during the labor and birth process, and doctors do not always tell them. As such, it is not always possible to determine when a child’s HIE is the result of medical malpractice.
How to Know if You Have a Case
If your child was born with HIE and you are wondering if you have a medical malpractice case, it is always best to speak to a Minnesota HIE lawyer. An attorney will collect, preserve, and properly present evidence to prove that a hospital, physician, or other medical personnel caused your child’s injuries. It is important to speak to a lawyer as soon as possible, as there are time limits on these claims. Failing to file before that time limit expires will likely result in a forfeiture of any damages you are entitled to.
Our HIE Lawyer in Minnesota is Ready to Help with Your Case
When your child has suffered a birth injury, our Minnesota HIE lawyer at Wais, Vogelstein, Forman, Koch & Norman, LLC, is here to help. We understand that all births should be a reason to celebrate and when something goes wrong, we hold medical professionals accountable. Call us today or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.
