What Is Brachioplexus?

11 Nov What Is Brachioplexus?

The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke defines brachioplexus as damage to the network of nerves that conduct signals from a person’s spine, arms, hand and shoulder area. This group of nerves is called the brachial plexus. The Institute further explains that these injuries can result due to tumors, inflammation or shoulder trauma. Usually with babies, brachioplexus happens when a baby’s shoulder becomes stretched during passage from the birth canal. The baby’s shoulder might get stuck under the mother's pelvic bone thereby causing traction. The Brachial Plexus Palsy Foundation states that Brachial Plexus palsy is actually more common than down syndrome and cerebral palsy. Brachioplexus occurs three times in every 1,000 births, compared to CP with two in 1,000 and down syndrome with one in 1,000. The Brachial Plexus Palsy Foundation states that evidence of such an injury will be noticeable immediately. The child’s arm will appear to be fully or partially paralyzed. In some cases, the child may show signs of Horner's Syndrome which involves a droopy eyelid. The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke further says that the full extent of a brachioplexus injury depends on the type of damage that is done to the nerves. A brachioplexus is a type of birth injury, and the majority of birth injury cases are considered preventable. A doctor cannot be held responsible for brachioplexus occurring by nature. However, he does owe some accountability to the patient for diagnosing and predicting the condition and reacting to traction in an educated way. For example, women who are obese, have smaller than average pelvises or have gestational diabetes are at higher risk for a birth injury. If a doctor can anticipate these warning signs and take the necessary precautions, then there is a good chance that trauma can be prevented. If your child has suffered a birth injury because of a doctor’s negligence then you may have grounds for a lawsuit. Contact the Rasansky Law Firm at 1-877-659-1620 for details concerning your brachioplexus case. Remember that you have placed a great deal of trust in your doctor. When that trust has been negligently violated and your child has been affected, someone must be held accountable.