In situations that are not medical emergencies, but are nonetheless concerning, a mother and her obstetrician may have options about how to proceed with a nonprogressing labor. For example, if the baby is not yet in distress but is showing signs of stress, a doctor may recommend a C-section, delivery with the use of forceps or delivery with the use of a vacuum extractor.
Generally, if a vacuum extractor is used correctly it presents fewer risks than other interventions. However, if a doctor is negligent in his or her use of a vacuum extractor then the following harm may be done:
- There may be cosmetic harm to the baby’s scalp;
- There may be bleeding under the skin on the baby’s head, known as a hematoma; or
- There may be a retinal hemorrhage or an intracranial hemorrhage.
If your child has suffered because of a doctor’s negligent use of a vacuum extractor then you may be entitled to damages. Contact a Pennsylvania medical malpractice lawyer for more information about your family’s right to recovery.
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