Prolapsed Umbilical Cord Can Lead to a Serious Medical Condition

The umbilical cord is vital in the development of the baby. It is through the umbilical cord that the baby receives oxygenated blood and nutrients. If there is a disruption in this process, the outcome can be catastrophic, leading to asphyxia and hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy. A prolapsed umbilical cord can cause oxygen deprivation that could result in brain damage.

A prolapsed umbilical cord occurs when the umbilical cord descends before the part of the baby being delivered. Basically, a prolapsed umbilical cord refers to the situation where the umbilical cord is delivered before the baby. It can result in cord compression.

This condition often occurs when the baby is not in the vertex position, meaning the baby’s head does not reach the birth canal first. For example, if the baby is in breech position, the risk of a prolapsed cord goes up. The doctor and medical staff have to take appropriate actions to prevent umbilical cord prolapsed.

When there is a prolapsed umbilical cord, it is considered to be a medical emergency. The doctor, hospital and nurses will take prompt measures to protect the newborn. Emergency C-section is often performed in prolapsed umbilical cord cases.

Babies with prolapsed umbilical cords have been known to suffer serious health conditions caused by lack of oxygen, such as permanent brain injury, cerebral palsy and in some unfortunate cases, death. If your child has suffered a birth injury from a prolapsed cord, you may be able to hold the medical provider responsible, depending on the details of your case. When medical negligence results in a birth injury, you can pursue compensation. For more information, contact a birth injury lawyer in Louisville at Franklin Gray & White for more information at 502-637-6000 or 800-637-6033. We will review your case to help you determine what caused the prolapsed cord and who is to blame.

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Larry B. Franklin