Bringing a new life into the world is meant to be a joyous occasion. However, when complications arise during pregnancy, labor, or delivery, the consequences can be devastating. One such complication is hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE), a serious birth injury caused by oxygen deprivation to the baby’s brain. If your child has been diagnosed with HIE in Santa Fe, you may feel overwhelmed and uncertain about the future. At Hampton & King, a Santa Fe birth injury attorney can help you understand your legal options and fight for the justice your family deserves. Call us at (713) 658-0231 today for your free consultation, and let’s start the process.
What Is Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy (HIE)?
HIE occurs when a baby’s brain is deprived of oxygen and blood flow during childbirth. This lack of oxygen can cause brain cells to die, leading to permanent brain damage. The severity of HIE can vary, with some children experiencing mild developmental delays and others facing severe physical and cognitive impairments.
Common causes of HIE include:
- Delayed C-section: When a cesarean section is not performed promptly despite signs of fetal distress.
- Umbilical cord complications: Prolapsed cord, cord compression, or nuchal cord (cord wrapped around the baby’s neck).
- Placental issues: Placental abruption or insufficiency can restrict oxygen and nutrients to the baby.
- Prolonged labor: Extended labor increases the risk of oxygen deprivation.
- Maternal infections: Untreated infections in the mother can lead to complications that harm the baby.
The Impact of HIE on Santa Fe Victims and Families
A diagnosis of HIE can have life-altering consequences for both the child and their family. Depending on the severity of the injury, children with HIE may require lifelong medical care, specialized therapies, and assistive devices. This can place an emotional and financial strain on families already coping with the challenges of raising a child with special needs.
In addition to the immediate medical expenses, families often face:
- Ongoing therapy costs (physical, occupational, speech therapy)
- Special education services
- Medical equipment and home modifications
- Lost income from caregiving responsibilities
Our Houston Hypoxic Ischemic Encephalopathy lawyers also provide dedicated support to victims and their families as they navigate the challenges of a birth injury diagnosis throughout Texas.
Was Your Child’s HIE Preventable?
While some cases of HIE are unavoidable, many result from medical negligence. Doctors, nurses, and other healthcare providers are expected to monitor both the mother and baby during pregnancy and delivery, promptly address signs of distress, and take action to prevent harm. When medical professionals fail to uphold the standard of care, the consequences can be catastrophic.
National Library of Medicine examples of medical negligence that may lead to HIE include:
- Failing to recognize signs of fetal distress
- Delaying necessary medical interventions, such as an emergency C-section
- Mismanaging complications like preeclampsia or maternal infections
- Improper use of delivery tools, such as forceps or vacuum extractors
If you suspect that medical negligence played a role in your child’s HIE, it’s crucial to speak with an experienced birth injury attorney who can evaluate your case and determine whether you have grounds for a claim.
How Can a Santa Fe HIE Birth Injury Attorney Help?
Pursuing a birth injury claim is a complex process that requires extensive legal and medical knowledge. At Hampton & King, our attorneys are experienced in birth injury cases, including those involving HIE. We work with leading medical experts to investigate the circumstances surrounding your child’s injury, identify signs of negligence, and build a strong case on your behalf.
Here’s how we can assist:
- Comprehensive case evaluation: We will review medical records, consult with experts, and determine whether medical negligence occurred.
- Calculating damages: Our team will assess the full financial impact of your child’s injury, including future care costs and lost income.
- Advocating for your family: We will negotiate with insurance companies and, if necessary, take your case to court to secure the compensation you deserve.
Our goal is to help your family achieve financial stability so you can focus on providing the best possible care for your child.
Get The Santa Fe Legal Help You Deserve With Hampton & King
If your child has been diagnosed with HIE due to medical negligence, you don’t have to face this journey alone. A Hampton & King Houston medical malpractice lawyer is here to support you every step of the way, from understanding your legal rights to fighting for the compensation your family needs.
Contact Hampton & King at (713) 658-0231 or complete our simple online form to schedule your free consultation. Let us help you seek the justice and financial security your family deserves.