Fatal birth injury alleged from use of forceps in delivery

Friday January 24, 2014

A couple is using a social media website to inform parents about the dangers of forceps-assisted delivery of an infant. The couple has created a Facebook page and an online petition to ban the use of forceps in all birth processes after they lost their infant daughter just days after she was born.

The fatal medical error reportedly occurred on Dec. 28 when the couple’s obstetrician allegedly fractured the baby’s skull when he used forceps to assist in the baby’s delivery. Because of her small size and the baby’s relatively large size, the baby’s mother had requested a cesarean section, but the obstetrician refused, even after labor continued for 18 hours. Finally, when he realized the baby was turned the wrong way, the obstetrician allegedly tried to use small forceps to turn and pull the baby out. Unfortunately, his attempts crushed the baby’s skull.

The infant was ultimately delivered through an emergency C-section. Her numerous skull fractures were so severe that she was immediately transferred to a children’s hospital. She died five days later.

The couple is reportedly planning a medical negligence suit against the physician only — they do not hold the hospital where the birth injury occurred responsible. In addition, the couple is planning to advocate for a bill called “Olivia’s Law” that will prohibit forceps for all births.

A case of fatal birth injury caused by a doctor’s negligence is definitely heartbreaking for parents anywhere, including those in Connecticut. Such a tragic loss can lead to considerable emotional distress for a family. Under such an unfortunate circumstance, a family can take note of its legal rights to hold the party responsible for the outcome accountable for their actions, especially when negligence is the main contributing factor.

Source: CBS Houston, “Family: Doctor Using Forceps During Delivery Crushed Baby’s Skull, Severed Spinal Cord,” Jan. 7, 2014

Get in Touch

Schedule a Free Initial Consultation

At Kennedy, Johnson, Schwab & Roberge, L.L.C., we handle all cases on a contingency fee basis. This means that we do not get paid unless and until you receive a settlement or a jury award.

Schedule a free, confidential consultation with a skilled Connecticut personal injury lawyer today.

News & insights
Meta Inc. Files Motion to Move CT Product Liability Case to MDL
News

Meta Inc. Files Motion to Move CT Product Liability Case to MDL

23

March
2023

Is It Illegal To Drive With Your Hazard Lights On?
Articles

Is It Illegal To Drive With Your Hazard Lights On?

23

March
2023

How to Handle Chemical Exposure in the Workplace
Articles

How to Handle Chemical Exposure in the Workplace

20

March
2023

Brain Injury Awareness Month: March 2023
News

Brain Injury Awareness Month: March 2023

16

March
2023

Dram Shop Laws in Connecticut
ArticlesInsights

Dram Shop Laws in Connecticut

28

February
2023

The Leading Causes of Motor Vehicle Accidents
Articles

The Leading Causes of Motor Vehicle Accidents

20

February
2023

Upcoming Bipartisan Congressional Bills Focused on Protecting Children Online
News

Upcoming Bipartisan Congressional Bills Focused on Protecting Children Online

20

February
2023

KJSR Files Suit Against Meta Platforms Inc., Snap Inc.
News

KJSR Files Suit Against Meta Platforms Inc., Snap Inc.

6

February
2023

Wrong Way Accidents: What They Are and How They Occur
Insights

Wrong Way Accidents: What They Are and How They Occur

23

January
2023

Crosswalk Laws in Connecticut
Articles

Crosswalk Laws in Connecticut

6

January
2023