When C-Section Becomes Necessary
Emergency cesarean section is indicated when:
- ✓Fetal distress shown on heart rate monitoring
- ✓Umbilical cord prolapse
- ✓Placental abruption
- ✓Uterine rupture
- ✓Failure to progress in labor
- ✓Cephalopelvic disproportion (baby too large)
- ✓Fetal malpresentation not resolving
The "Decision-to-Incision" Standard
Medical standards typically require that an emergency C-section be performed within 30 minutes of the decision to operate. For severe fetal distress or cord prolapse, delivery should ideally occur within 10-15 minutes. Delays beyond these windows significantly increase injury risk.
Consequences of Delayed C-Section
When C-section is delayed, babies can suffer oxygen deprivation leading to:
- ✓Hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy (HIE)
- ✓Cerebral palsy
- ✓Permanent brain damage
- ✓Intellectual disabilities
- ✓Developmental delays
- ✓Death
Common Causes of Delays
Negligent delays often result from: failure to recognize or respond to fetal distress, inadequate monitoring, doctor not available or responding slowly, operating room not prepared, hospital understaffing, and poor communication between staff.
Proving a Delayed C-Section Case
Key evidence includes fetal heart rate monitoring strips, timing documented in medical records, expert testimony on standard of care, and evidence of the baby's condition before and after delivery. An experienced attorney will thoroughly analyze all records.