Birth related brachial plexus palsies can be defined as either Erb’s palsies or Klumpke’s palsies. Erb’s palsies are injuries occurring in the upper brachial plexus, whereas Klumpke’s palsies are injuries which occur in the lower brachial plexus. Various factors can increase an infant’s risk of suffering a brachial plexus palsy during childbirth. Improper, unskilled or negligent treatment by a medical professional can also cause an infant to suffer a brachial plexus palsy.
A brachial plexus injury occurs when nerves are damaged by having been constricted, strained, or, in extreme cases, severed from the spinal cord. Brachial plexus injuries are categorized in accordance with the severity of damage done to the nerves, as follows:
The presentation of shoulder dystocia or a breech position during delivery increases an infant’s risk of serious complications such as brain injury or death. With proper medical care and attention, these emergency situations can be foreseen and appropriately managed. Medical professionals can employ specific maneuvers and may utilize birth assisting tools such as forceps or a vacuum extractor to reduce the risk of serious complications.
However, improper use of these techniques and medical aids can cause stretching or tearing of an infant’s nerves resulting in permanent, serious injury such as Erb’s palsy or Klumpke’s palsy. These preventable conditions often require extensive medical treatment including physiotherapy, surgery, and professional counselling to maximize a child’s potential for recovery and wellbeing.
Several factors can increase an infant’s risk of suffering a brachial plexus injury during childbirth, including:
Erb’s palsy is caused by damage to the upper C5 and C6 nerves. Partial or full paralysis of the arm can occur. The injured is unable to raise their arm which hangs to the side. In some instances, the affected arm is noticeably smaller than the unaffected arm.
Klumpke’s palsy is caused by damage to the lower C8 and T1 nerves. This results in paralysis of the forearm and hand muscles. Klumpke’s palsy can give the appearance of a clawed hand as the wrist and fingers are affected.
We have nearly 80 years of experience in helping injured victims in obtaining justice for their injury claims.
If your child has been diagnosed with a brachial plexus injury such as Erb’s palsy or Klumpke’s palsy and you suspect medical negligence as a cause, please contact Wagners at 902-425-7330 or via email at [email protected]
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