The exact cause of HIE is not always known but can include medical conditions such as cord prolapse, uterine rupture, abruptio placenta, placenta previa, maternal hypotension, breech presentation, or shoulder dystonia.
There are several risk factors that increase the likelihood of developing HIE, including:
While every child is different, common hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy symptoms include:
Depending upon what part of the baby’s brain is damaged, symptoms can range from mild to severe.
Healthcare providers who note these symptoms shortly after birth can perform a variety of medical tests to confirm a diagnosis of HIE. These include:
Complications that arise from HIE include:
One of the most common causes of cerebral palsy is HIE. Quite often, a child diagnosed with HIE at birth does not receive a diagnosis of cerebral palsy until months or even years later, when they start to show developmental delays.
Strategies intended to reduce the risk of oxygen deprivation at birth can take place during pregnancy, childbirth, and immediately after a child is born. These include:
Treatment options for children diagnosed with HIE vary depending upon their age, general health, and the severity of their condition. If an infant receives an HIE diagnosis at birth, treatment may include:
The long term prognosis for children with an HIE diagnosis can vary depending on the severity of their condition. While some children do not suffer any lasting effects, others who present with all four function disability categories (motor, cognitive, visual, and hearing) have a 50% chance of surviving to age 13. Approximately 25% have a life expectancy up to the age of 30.
According to Cerebral Palsy Guidance, research indicates that about 15% of babies born with HIE will also receive a cerebral palsy diagnosis.
If your child received an HIE diagnosis and you believe their condition was a result of medical malpractice, the birth injury attorneys at Pintas & Mullins can help. We’ve negotiated settlements and litigated hundreds of birth injury cases and collected millions for our clients. We have years of experience with these types of lawsuits and are intent on seeking justice for you and your child. Contact us for a free assessment of your case. Call or text 800-934-6555 or complete our Free Case Evaluation form online to get started today.
Check out our blog for answers to questions you may have with respect to your case.
368 W Huron St, Suite 100
Chicago, IL 60654
Open: Mon – Sun 8:30am – 7:00pm
We are here to ensure that your voice is heard. If you or a loved one was wrongfully injured, we want to hear about it. Contact us today and we’ll review your case for free.