There are a number of birth injuries that can result from normal, unavoidable complications in the birthing process. For example, a baby's bones, especially the collar bone, may become fractured as he or she passes through the birth canal. There may be little a doctor can do to avoid this complication.

However, there are many instances in which a harmful birth injury is caused by the negligence of a doctor, nurse, or other member of the hospital staff. According to national statistics, approximately six out of every 1,000 babies born in North Carolina and throughout the country sustains a birth injury of some kind, and many of these are the product of medical malpractice.

For example, a doctor who fails to induce birth or conduct a cesarean section in a timely manner can cause the baby to be deprived of oxygen before and during birth. If this happens, the baby may be diagnosed with cerebral palsy or a number of similar disorders. Improper or overuse of medication during the birth process can also cause brain damage and related diseases.

In addition, a baby may be diagnosed with Erb's palsy, a damaging of the group of nerves that controls hand and arm movement. This occurs when the baby's shoulders hinder its passage through the birth canal. Surgery may be required to repair the nerves in some cases.

Finally, if a doctor improperly uses forceps during birth, the baby may suffer facial paralysis. If this happens, surgery may be required to repair the damaged nerves in the face.

Source: KJRH, "How medical malpractice leads to birth injuries," 1/11/12