Causes and Risk Factors for Cerebral Palsy Video
Causes and Risk Factors for Cerebral Palsy Video Transcript:
My name is Andrea Shea and I’m a registered nurse. I’m the on-site nurse here at Michigan Cerebral Palsy Attorneys. I currently review medical records. When I receive medical records, it takes me weeks, sometimes months, to go through, review, and look for potential mistakes that may have occurred during the labor and/or delivery period.
Cerebral palsy is a term for a group of disorders that are characterized by the early onset of impaired movement and/or posture. The spectrum of cerebral palsy can range from mild to severe. Risk factors that are associated with cerebral palsy include premature birth [with a mismanaged pregnancy]. Another risk factor is when babies don’t get enough oxygen during labor or delivery. This can result in HIE, or hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy. When doctors misuse instruments for delivery, whether it be forceps or vacuums [vacuum extractors], that’s another risk factor for developing cerebral palsy. Another risk factor is very low birth weight, meaning a baby is born and they are smaller than expected for their age. Maternal infections that go untreated can also be a cause.
We also see untreated jaundice—that is a risk factor associated with cerebral palsy. Untreated jaundice occurs in the newborn period. When a baby has jaundice and is not treated, then it can cause permanent brain damage and later, we see those babies are sometimes diagnosed with cerebral palsy.
Our team is nationally recognized in the field of birth injury law. We only represent families who have been affected by preventable birth or neonatal injuries. For a free case review, you can reach one of our attorney at (888) 592-1857, or please fill out the contact form on this website and one of our attorneys will get back to you.