Hydrocephalus Birth Injury

Hydrocephalus is a neurological condition that affects newborns. Once called “water on the brain”, it is characterized by an enlarged or swollen head due to superfluous amounts of cerebrospinal fluid built up in the brain. It occurs in one in 500 babies. Cerebrospinal fluid covers the brain and spinal cord to protect it. It keeps it buoyant and flexible, carrying nutrients and compensating for the ever-changing amount of blood in the brain. It also removes waste. At the onset of hydrocephalus, the four ventricles of the brain widen and produce harmful pressure on the tissue of the brain.

Hydrocephalus is caused by several things, which are either developmental or genetic. Genes change as they pass through the generations through a process called meiosis. Genes can also be changed through an outside force. For instance, radiation causes changes in genes. Infection or trauma at birth and hemorrhaging can cause hydrocephalus. The cause may or may not be related to medical malpractice. It depends on the specific case. Spina Bifida, cerebral palsy, and other birth defects can also cause a blockage of cerebrospinal fluid.

Hydrocephalus has two classes of causation: congenital hydrocephalus, and acquired hydrocephalus. Congenital hydrocephalus is present at birth and usually triggered by something that happened during fetal development or by a genetic abnormality. Acquired hydrocephalus is caused by birth trauma or an accident later in life.

A baby with this birth injury will have a swollen or quickly enlarging head with a bulging soft spot. Seizures may develop, along with downward fixed eyes and development delays. The only treatment is to attempt a reduction of fluid in the brain. It is done using a shunt or a surgical procedure. Both are highly effective as well as highly expensive procedures.

When a child is born with an injury due to medical staff negligence, it is a pain like no other. Mother form a special bond with their obstetrician. Often, pregnant women will visit more than one doctor when choosing one for the duration of their pregnancy. It must be the right doctor. When the doctor you feel so strongly about takes risks with your child’s health it is heartbreaking. Making the decision making process even harder.

The fundamental task in treating hydrocephalus is early detection, treatment, and prevention of infection. Babies with hydrocephalus require recurrent medical assessment to make certain proper shunt functions are maintained. Babies who have sustained an intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH), may see hydrocephalus as a result. It is simply one of the long-term effects of brain damage caused by IVH.

Hydrocephalus is fairly commonplace and does not have to end in brain damage or be a sign of serious problems. Get a thorough diagnosis before making any decisions.

If you or a loved one has experienced the tragedy of a child born with a birth injury, you will need a lawyer with specific experience. Call Moseley Collins at (916) 444-4444 for a free consultation.

Moseley Collins is a personal injury lawyer serving those badly hurt throughout California. There is absolutely NO FEE to discuss your case and there is absolutely no fee unless we win and get you the money you are entitled to.

We are on your side and know exactly what to do to get you compensation and justice. Additionally, we have frequently worked with many other families who have faced the difficult challenges that you are now confronting because of your child’s birth injury. We truly understand your situation, and will do everything possible in our power to help you!

Moseley Collins
980 9th St, 16th Floor
Sacramento, CA 95814
Phone: (916) 444-4444
https://www.moseleycollins.com/