Erbs Palsy
Erbs Palsy is a condition that
affects around 1% of newborn babies. Also known as Brachial Plexus
Paralysis it is caused by an injury to the brachial plexus system of
nerves that is usually sustained during birth.
The brachial plexus is a network of
nerves that run from the spine to the shoulders and
down to the tips of the fingers. There are differing
degrees in severity with much depending upon which
nerves were damaged.
The condition is usually evident
immediately after birth. In serious cases the arm can
be left paralysed. There are four types of Erbs Palsy
covering the ranges of severity, categorisation
depends on which of the five primary nerves have been
damaged and the extent of the damage caused.
How can
this injury occur?
This injury happens when the nerves
at the base of the neck are torn or bruised because
the baby's shoulder becomes stuck behind the mothers
pelvis during delivery. This is known as "shoulder
dystocia". Although not usually foreseen there are a
number of well recognised risk factors which any
doctor or midwife should be aware of. Failure to
recognise these may lead to a finding of medical
negligence.
If you feel that you or a member of
your family have been the victim of such negligence
please contact us immediately for legal advice. You
may be entitled to compensation.
Contact us today by
email or phone
0800 0322210
for immediate legal advice on
Medical or GP Negligence claim.
