The arrival of a new baby should bring the entire family great joy. We trust in doctors and nurses to deliver babies safely, which is usually the case.
Sadly, there are times when professional negligence leads to a significant injury or birth defect, such as blindness or vision impairment that is permanent. When can medical malpractice have the serious consequence of blindness or vision impairment at birth?
The result of a traumatic birth
A baby’s eyes are very delicate and sensitive. If sufficient care and attention are not given when they are being delivered, it’s easy for them to become damaged. An example of how this might occur is through the Improper use of tools such as a vacuum or forceps. This can result in significant eye damage and even blindness.
Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP)
ROP affects premature babies. They develop abnormal blood vessels around the eye which cause pressure and permanent damage to the retina if not identified early and treated properly.
The risk factors of ROP are known to all medical practitioners who work with premature babies. In the worst-case scenario, irreversible blindness can ensue from failing to diagnose and treat it.
Other contributing factors to blindness at birth:
- Improper delay in carrying out a C-section
- A failure to respond to fetal distress
- Oxygen deprivation
- Not recognizing and treating an STI in the mother
Blindness caused by medical malpractice is life-changing for both a child and their parents. Know that seeking legal assistance can help with making a claim for compensation if your child has been injured as a result of negligence.
