The position of a baby in the womb plays a significant role in the birthing process. When a baby is in a breech position—meaning the baby’s feet or buttocks are positioned to come out first instead of the head—it can complicate delivery. While many breech births are successfully managed, there are cases where the delivery process leads to long-term complications for the child. This article explores the potential breech baby problems later in life, the role of medical malpractice in these cases, and how an experienced medical malpractice lawyer like Joseph M. Lichtenstein can help.

 

What is a Breech Baby?

Before delving into the potential problems that breech babies may face later in life, it’s essential to understand what a breech baby is. In a typical pregnancy, babies usually turn head-down by the 32nd to 36th week, preparing for birth. However, in about 3-4% of full-term pregnancies, the baby remains in a breech position, where the feet or buttocks are positioned to be delivered first. There are three main types of breech positions:

1. Frank Breech: The baby’s buttocks are aimed at the birth canal with legs straight up, and feet near the head.
2. Complete Breech: The baby’s buttocks are aimed at the birth canal, but the legs are folded at the knees with feet near the buttocks.
3. Footling Breech: One or both feet are pointed downward, ready to come out first.

While breech deliveries can be managed with either vaginal delivery or cesarean section (C-section), the choice of method and how it is executed can significantly impact the baby’s health, both immediately and in the long term.

 

Breech Baby Problems Later in Life

Breech births, while manageable, can sometimes lead to complications that extend beyond delivery. Conditions like developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) and brachial plexus injuries are among the problems that may arise later, impacting a child’s growth, mobility, and overall well-being. Understanding these potential long-term effects is essential for ensuring that any necessary interventions are made early.

1. Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip (DDH)

One of the most common long-term issues for babies born in the breech position is Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip (DDH). This condition occurs when the hip joint doesn’t develop properly, leading to a partial or complete dislocation of the hip. The risk of DDH is higher in breech babies, particularly in those with frank breech presentations.

Symptoms of DDH might not become apparent until the child starts to walk, with signs including:

1. A noticeable limp or waddle.
2. Limited range of motion in one leg.
3. Differences in leg length.
4. Uneven skin folds on the thigh.

If untreated, DDH can lead to chronic pain, osteoarthritis, and other mobility issues later in life.

2. Cerebral Palsy

Cerebral Palsy (CP) is another potential issue that can arise from complications during a breech delivery. CP is a group of disorders that affect a person’s ability to move and maintain balance and posture. It is often caused by brain damage that occurs before, during, or immediately after birth.

While not all breech births result in CP, the risk increases if there are complications during delivery, such as oxygen deprivation due to umbilical cord prolapse or difficulty delivering the baby’s head.

3. Brachial Plexus Injuries

The brachial plexus is a network of nerves that sends signals from the spine to the shoulder, arm, and hand. Breech deliveries, especially those that involve significant pulling or traction, can result in brachial plexus injuries, leading to conditions like Erb’s Palsy. Erb’s Palsy can cause weakness or paralysis in the affected arm, and in severe cases, the injury can lead to permanent disability.

4. Orthopedic Problems

Breech babies are also at a higher risk of developing various orthopedic problems later in life, including:

1. Scoliosis: An abnormal curvature of the spine.
2. Clubfoot: A condition where the foot is twisted out of shape or position.
3. Torticollis: A condition where the head becomes twisted to one side due to tight neck muscles.

These conditions might require physical therapy, braces, or even surgery as the child grows.

5. Learning and Behavioral Issues

While less common, some studies suggest that children born in breech positions might be at a slightly higher risk for learning and behavioral issues later in life. This could be related to potential oxygen deprivation during a difficult breech delivery, leading to subtle neurological impacts.

 

The Role of Medical Malpractice in Breech Births

Breech births require careful management by healthcare providers. If a breech position is not diagnosed in time or if the delivery is mishandled, it could lead to the long-term complications mentioned above. In such cases, medical malpractice might be involved.

1. Failure to Diagnose Breech Position

A key aspect of prenatal care involves monitoring the baby’s position. If a healthcare provider fails to diagnose a breech position during routine checkups, they might miss the opportunity to plan for a safer delivery method, such as a C-section. Failure to properly diagnose and plan can result in complications during delivery, which might constitute medical malpractice.

2. Improper Handling of Breech Delivery

Even when a breech position is correctly identified, the method of delivery must be carefully chosen and executed. Attempting a vaginal breech delivery without the necessary skills or ignoring the signs that a C-section is needed can lead to serious birth injuries. Such decisions could be seen as a deviation from the standard of care, potentially leading to a malpractice claim.

3. Lack of Informed Consent

Healthcare providers are obligated to inform expectant mothers of the risks associated with breech deliveries and the options available to them. If a provider fails to provide this information, or if they downplay the risks, the patient may not be able to make an informed decision about the delivery method, leading to complications that could have been avoided.

 

How a Medical Malpractice Lawyer Can Help

If your child has suffered long-term complications due to a mishandled breech delivery, you may have grounds for a medical malpractice claim. An experienced medical malpractice lawyer can help you navigate this complex process.

1. Understanding Your Rights

A medical malpractice lawyer will help you understand your legal rights and determine whether you have a valid claim. They will review your medical records, consult with experts, and build a case that demonstrates how the healthcare provider’s negligence contributed to your child’s injuries.

2. Filing a Claim

Filing a medical malpractice claim involves a lot of paperwork, deadlines, and legal procedures. A lawyer will handle all of this on your behalf, ensuring that your claim is filed correctly and on time.

3. Securing Compensation

Compensation in medical malpractice cases can cover a wide range of expenses, including medical bills, ongoing therapy, special education costs, and pain and suffering. A skilled lawyer will work to secure the maximum compensation possible to help you and your child manage the long-term effects of a breech birth injury.

 

Why Choose Joseph M. Lichtenstein as your Malpractice Attorney

When it comes to medical malpractice, having a seasoned lawyer on your side can make all the difference. Joseph M. Lichtenstein, a multiple-time Malpractice Attorney of the Year award winner, has the experience and dedication needed to take on complex breech birth cases. His expertise in medical malpractice law ensures that your case is handled with the utmost care and attention, giving you the best chance at securing the compensation your family deserves. If your child has suffered due to the mismanagement of a breech delivery, don’t wait—contact Joseph M. Lichtenstein today to explore your legal options.