Warwick Cephalohematoma Lawyer

Fighting for Justice When Birth Injuries Occur in Warwick, RI

When the joyous moment of welcoming a newborn turns into a nightmare due to a birth injury, families are often left overwhelmed and uncertain about their legal rights. If your child has been diagnosed with cephalohematoma and you believe medical negligence may be involved, a knowledgeable Warwick cephalohematoma attorney at Decof, Mega & Quinn, P.C. can help you understand your options and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Contact our Warwick cephalohematoma lawyers at (401) 200-4059 today to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation.

What is Cephalohematoma?

Cephalohematoma is a type of birth injury characterized by a collection of blood between a baby’s scalp and the skull bone. This condition typically results from trauma during labor or delivery. While the bleeding occurs outside the brain and under the periosteum (a membrane that covers the bones), it can still lead to serious health complications.

Cephalohematomas may not be immediately visible at birth but often appear within hours or days. They generally feel like soft, raised lumps on the baby’s head. Although cephalohematomas may resolve on their own over a period of weeks or months, they sometimes require medical intervention and can lead to further complications if not properly monitored or treated.

Common Causes of Cephalohematoma Due to Negligence

While cephalohematomas can occasionally occur without fault, many are the result of medical negligence or improper use of birthing tools. Some common causes linked to malpractice include:

• Improper use of forceps or vacuum extractors: These assistive devices are intended to aid in delivery, but if used with excessive force or inappropriately, they can injure a baby’s head and cause a cephalohematoma.
• Prolonged or difficult labor: When labor is mismanaged or delayed unnecessarily, it can increase the risk of injury due to fetal distress or use of aggressive delivery methods.
• Failure to monitor fetal distress: Inadequate monitoring can lead to delayed intervention, forcing more forceful delivery techniques.
• Improper positioning during delivery: If a baby is not aligned correctly and the medical team fails to adjust the position or order a cesarean section in time, unnecessary trauma can occur.
• Neglecting to perform a timely C-section: Delayed decisions regarding cesarean delivery can force rushed, high-risk vaginal deliveries.

Short- & Long-Term Effects of Cephalohematoma

While many cephalohematomas resolve without invasive treatment, others can lead to complications requiring ongoing medical care. The potential short- and long-term effects include:

Short-Term Effects:

• Infection: If the blood clot becomes infected, it can lead to an abscess or serious illness such as sepsis.
• Jaundice: As the blood in the cephalohematoma breaks down, bilirubin levels in the baby’s body can rise, causing jaundice. Severe cases can lead to brain damage if untreated.
• Anemia: Significant blood loss into the cephalohematoma may cause anemia, requiring transfusions or other interventions.
• Pain and discomfort: Although babies can’t verbally express it, a cephalohematoma may cause pain and irritability.

Long-Term Effects:

• Skull deformities: If a large cephalohematoma calcifies, it can cause permanent deformities in the shape of the skull.
• Developmental delays: In rare cases, particularly when infections or severe jaundice are involved, cephalohematomas can lead to neurological damage and developmental issues.
• Increased medical expenses: Even minor cases often require additional tests and follow-up appointments, burdening families with unexpected medical costs.

Compensation for Cephalohematoma Birth Injuries

If your child’s cephalohematoma was caused by medical negligence, you may be entitled to significant compensation. Depending on the details of your case, damages may include:

• Current and future medical expenses
• Costs for therapy or rehabilitation
• Pain and suffering
• Loss of earning potential (if long-term disabilities result)
• Emotional distress and loss of quality of life

How a Warwick Cephalohematoma Attorney Can Help

Navigating a medical malpractice claim can be daunting, especially when your focus is on your child’s health. At Decof, Mega & Quinn, P.C., our experienced legal team in Warwick are committed to holding negligent healthcare providers accountable and securing justice for your family.

When you choose our Warwick cephalohematoma lawyer, we will:

• Conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the birth.
• Collaborate with medical experts to establish whether standard care procedures were violated.
• Gather evidence and documentation, including medical records and expert testimony.
• Fight for fair compensation, which may include medical bills, future care costs, pain and suffering, and emotional distress.

We operate on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing unless we win your case.

Contact us today at (401) 200-4059 to schedule your free consultation. Let us help you secure the support and relief necessary for your family’s future.