Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy (HIE) Lawyers in Atlanta, GA

Fighting For HIE Victims in Georgia

Our firm has been trusted to handle some of the country's most complex medical malpractice cases. We have a proven record of success and an unwavering dedication to our clients. If your child suffered a serious birth injury, such as hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE), you can trust Cunningham Bounds to provide the compassionate, personalized legal representation you and your family deserve.

Call (844) 417-0930 to speak with an Atlanta HIE attorney at Cunningham Bounds.

Understanding Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy

Hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) is a type of birth injury that occurs when an infant’s brain is deprived of oxygen. This can occur in utero, during birth, or shortly after delivery. In many cases, HIE is caused by medical negligence, such as the failure to properly monitor the mother and baby or the failure to perform an emergency C-section.

HIE is a serious, life-threatening condition that can result in permanent damage. Children who suffer HIE may face a lifetime of medical complications and may require extensive medical care. They may also suffer from severe cognitive, developmental, and/or physical disabilities. In some cases, HIE is fatal.

Causes of Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy

HIE occurs when an infant’s brain is deprived of oxygen. This can happen in various ways, but in many cases, it is the result of medical negligence. When doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals fail to provide the accepted standard of care, they can be held legally liable for any resulting harm.

Some common causes of HIE include:

• Failure to Monitor Fetal Distress: During labor and delivery, medical professionals must monitor the fetus for signs of distress, such as changes in heart rate. Failure to do so can result in prolonged oxygen deprivation, leading to HIE.
• Failure to Perform a C-section: In cases where a C-section is medically indicated due to complications such as umbilical cord prolapse, placental abruption, or prolonged labor, a delay in performing the procedure can result in HIE due to prolonged oxygen deprivation.
• Medication Errors: Administration of medications during labor and delivery, such as those used for pain relief or to induce or augment labor, must be carefully managed. Errors in dosage or timing can lead to complications that contribute to HIE.
• Inadequate Neonatal Resuscitation: After birth, if the newborn is not promptly and effectively resuscitated in cases of birth asphyxia, it can result in HIE. Proper training and adherence to resuscitation protocols are essential to prevent such complications.
• Inadequate Monitoring and Care in Neonatal Period: Following birth, proper monitoring and care of the newborn are crucial. Failure to detect and appropriately manage signs of distress or complications in the neonatal period can lead to HIE or exacerbate an existing brain injury.
• Failure to Address Maternal Health Conditions: Certain maternal health conditions, such as preeclampsia, diabetes, or infections, can increase the risk of HIE in the newborn if not adequately managed during pregnancy and delivery.

Additional Risk Factors for Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy

Understanding the broader range of risk factors can help in taking preventive measures.

• Intrapartum events, such as prolonged labor or umbilical cord complications
• Fetal distress indicated by abnormal heart rate patterns or meconium staining
• Maternal factors, including infections, hypertension, diabetes, and substance use
• Prematurity and underdeveloped organs
• Intrauterine growth restriction (IGR) leading to compromised placental function
• Multiple gestations and associated complications
• Fetal anomalies such as congenital heart defects
• Advanced maternal age (typically defined as age 35 and older)
• History of previous pregnancy complications like preterm birth or preeclampsia

Addressing these factors proactively, through regular monitoring and intervention by healthcare professionals, can decrease the incidents of HIE and its severe implications.

If you believe that your child’s HIE was the result of medical negligence, reach out to our firm. We can help you determine if you have grounds for a claim and fight for the maximum compensation you are owed.

How is Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy Treated?

There is no cure for HIE, but there are several treatment options that can help minimize brain damage and other complications. The type of treatment recommended will depend on the severity of the condition and the specific symptoms the baby is experiencing.

Some common treatments for HIE include:

• Hypothermia Therapy: Also known as “whole-body cooling,” hypothermia therapy is a type of treatment that can help minimize brain damage in infants who have suffered HIE. During this treatment, the baby is placed on a cooling blanket and/or cap, which helps lower the body temperature. This treatment typically starts within six hours of birth and lasts about 72 hours.
• Medications: Medications can be used to treat specific symptoms of HIE. For example, if the baby is experiencing seizures, he or she may be given anti-seizure medications.
• Respiratory Support: If the baby is having difficulty breathing, he or she may require respiratory support. This can include the use of a ventilator or other breathing machine.
• Physical Therapy: Physical therapy can help treat muscle weakness and other physical complications of HIE. It can also help improve mobility and strength.

The cost of treatment for HIE can be astronomical, and many families are left struggling to make ends meet. If your child’s HIE was caused by medical negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for all of your child’s past and future medical expenses, as well as other economic and non-economic damages. At Cunningham Bounds, we can help you understand your legal options and fight for the maximum recovery you are owed.

Why Choose Cunningham Bounds?

At Cunningham Bounds, we are committed to holding negligent healthcare providers accountable. We understand that no amount of money can undo the damage that has been done, but we also believe that you shouldn’t have to bear the financial burden of a birth injury that was not your fault.

Our HIE lawyers in Atlanta have been fighting for the rights of the wrongfully injured since 1958, and we have recovered billions of dollars in verdicts and settlements for our clients. We know what it takes to win, and you can trust us to provide the practical, aggressive representation you need.

Contact Our HIE Attorneys in Atlanta Today

If your child was diagnosed with hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy, our firm is here to help. We can evaluate your situation, help you understand your legal options, and fight for the maximum recovery you are owed. Our HIE attorneys have a proven track record of success. We have been recognized by some of the most prestigious legal organizations in the country, including Super Lawyers® and Best Law Firms.

Frequently Asked Questions About HIE

What Legal Steps Should I Take If I Suspect Medical Negligence?

If you suspect that your child’s HIE diagnosis stems from medical negligence, it is crucial to consult with a knowledgeable attorney to explore your legal options. The first step is gathering all relevant medical records and documentation related to your child's prenatal and postnatal care. An attorney can help you evaluate this information and determine if there is enough evidence to pursue a claim. Subsequently, your lawyer will work with medical experts to analyze the birth circumstances to identify deviations from the standard of care.

Acting promptly is essential as statutes of limitations dictate the timeframe within which legal action can be initiated. This varies by state, and specific case circumstances, and missing these deadlines can impact your ability to seek compensation. Working with a dedicated legal team ensures that all procedural requirements are met and strengthens your position when negotiating possible settlements or preparing for trial.

How Can HIE Impact My Child's Future?

The long-term impact of hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy on a child varies significantly and depends largely on the severity and location of the brain injury. Children affected by HIE might experience cognitive impairments, including difficulties with problem-solving, attention, and learning. Physical challenges may also arise, ranging from muscle weakness to more severe motor function disabilities, such as cerebral palsy. Early therapeutic interventions can improve development outcomes, but the extent of recovery varies.

Additionally, children with HIE might face challenges with speech and communication, necessitating speech therapy and constant learning support. The condition may also lead to ongoing medical needs, such as frequent hospital visits and specialized equipment. Planning for the financial implications is essential, and seeking legal compensation can assist in covering these long-term care costs, enabling parents to provide the necessary interventions and support for their child's development.

Are There Any Support Resources for Families Affected by HIE?

Atlanta offers various support resources for families impacted by HIE. Local hospitals and rehabilitation centers often host support groups where parents can share experiences and advice. Additionally, organizations like the Georgia Department of Public Health provide resources and support services for families with special healthcare needs. These resources can guide managing care, assistive technology, and connecting with healthcare providers.

Non-profit organizations in Georgia, such as those dedicated to childhood disabilities, can also provide support. They offer educational materials, advocacy services, and community events to raise awareness and facilitate peer support networks. Engaging with these resources helps families navigate HIE's daily challenges while connecting with others in similar situations. This can be invaluable in providing emotional support and practical advice on managing the various aspects of care.

What Challenges Do HIE Families Face in Court?

Navigating a medical negligence claim in court can be complex for families dealing with HIE. One significant challenge is providing substantial evidence that links the healthcare provider's actions, or lack thereof, directly to the child's condition. Given the technical nature of such claims, expert testimonies from medical professionals are crucial for establishing a breach in the standard of care. These experts must convincingly demonstrate how alternative actions could have prevented the injury.

Another hurdle is overcoming the defenses posed by the healthcare providers, who may argue that the damages occurred due to unavoidable complications rather than negligence. The legal team must be adept at countering these arguments and substantiating the claim with compelling evidence and expert analysis. Strategic planning and comprehensive legal knowledge are essential to maneuver the intricacies of such cases, underlining the importance of engaging with a law firm experienced in HIE and birth injury claims.

Call (844) 417-0930 or contact us online today to schedule a free consultation with one of our Atlanta HIE lawyers.