New York parents who are expecting their first child may be interested to hear that some doctors are now using a new technology called C SAFE to make C-sections safer for babies. With the rate of C-sections accounting for nearly 33 percent of all births, doctors hope to reduce the amount of lacerations, the most common birth injury that occurs during C-sections.
In rare cases, babies can be nicked by the scalpel that doctors use when performing C-sections. Known as fetal lacerations, these injuries occur when doctors cut too deep. In some cases, babies only suffer from superficial cuts that heal with no complications. In other cases, however, fetal lacerations can result in the amputation of fingers and scarring.
With the new C SAFE device, the incision is made using a blunt tool that ensures doctors won’t cut too deep. Once the initial incision has been made, the blade that is used to reach the baby faces upwards and away from the child.
While new safer technology exists, many doctors are still using scalpels to deliver children. If an accident occurs during delivery, the family could face increased medical bills and emotional trauma due to accidental amputations and lacerations. If an otherwise healthy baby is injured due to hospital or medical negligence, the parents may be entitled to financial compensation.
A New York attorney may be able to assist parents when their child is injured during the delivery. The attorney may be able to investigate any evidence that shows that the baby was injured due to an unsafe medical procedure or negligence. If the birth injury caused a life-altering diagnosis, the parents may have further legal options available.
Source: CBS Philly, “Health: New way to reduce risk of injuries at birth“, Stephanie Stahl, June 26, 2013
