What is Hypoxic Ischemic Encephalopathy?
HIE occurs when the brain doesn't receive enough oxygen and blood flow, causing brain cells to die. It affects approximately 2-9 per 1,000 live births and can result in permanent disabilities including cerebral palsy, intellectual disabilities, and epilepsy.
Causes of HIE
Medical negligence leading to HIE includes:
- ✓Failure to monitor fetal heart rate and recognize distress
- ✓Delayed response to fetal distress
- ✓Failure to perform emergency C-section in time
- ✓Umbilical cord problems (prolapse, compression, nuchal cord) not properly managed
- ✓Placental abruption or uterine rupture not promptly addressed
- ✓Prolonged or difficult labor without intervention
Stages of HIE Severity
HIE is classified into three stages:
- ✓Mild HIE: Baby may be irritable or hyperalert but usually recovers fully
- ✓Moderate HIE: Baby is lethargic with decreased muscle tone; some risk of long-term problems
- ✓Severe HIE: Baby may be unconscious with seizures; high risk of death or permanent brain damage
Therapeutic Hypothermia Treatment
Cooling therapy (therapeutic hypothermia) must be started within 6 hours of birth to be effective. The baby's body temperature is lowered for 72 hours to slow brain damage. Failure to provide timely cooling therapy when indicated may constitute negligence.
Pursuing an HIE Lawsuit
HIE cases often result in substantial settlements due to the severity of injuries. Key evidence includes fetal monitoring strips, delivery records, and expert testimony establishing what should have been done differently. Compensation covers lifetime medical care, therapy, and other needs.