Hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) is a serious form of brain injury that can happen when a newborn’s brain doesn’t get enough oxygen and blood flow. For families in Santa Ana, discovering that their child has HIE, often due to medical mistakes during pregnancy or delivery, can be overwhelming and result in lifelong complications for the child.
Our experienced Santa Ana HIE attorneys have successfully handled numerous cases, including securing a $5.7 million verdict in a severe hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy lawsuit. At Ikuta Hemesath, we have a strong history of fighting for families affected by HIE and are dedicated to achieving the best possible outcome for your case.
Our team here in Santa Ana is here to support you through this challenging time, ensuring justice is served for your child and family.
Hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) can develop due to various factors before, during, or after birth. Some common causes include:
Placental Abruption: This occurs when the placenta separates from the uterus too early, cutting off the baby’s oxygen supply.
Umbilical Cord Issues: Problems like cord prolapse (when the cord slips ahead of the baby) or cord compression can restrict blood flow to the baby.
Prolonged or Difficult Labor: Extended labor or complications like shoulder dystocia can reduce oxygen flow to the baby during delivery.
Infant Airway Blockage: This can happen because of birth defects or meconium aspiration, where the baby inhales a mix of meconium (the first stool) and amniotic fluid, blocking airways.
Inadequate Blood Flow: Infections, heart issues, or abnormal blood pressure in the baby can disrupt proper circulation.
Premature Birth: Premature infants face a greater risk of complications, including HIE, due to their underdeveloped systems.
Severe Fetal Anemia: If the baby’s blood can’t carry enough oxygen, it increases the likelihood of HIE.
Each of these factors can deprive the baby’s brain of oxygen, leading to the possibility of HIE and its long-term effects.
If you are seeking a hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) attorney in Santa Ana, having the right legal support is essential for several reasons:
Identifying Liability: HIE can be caused by various factors, including medical negligence during labor, delivery, or postnatal care. A knowledgeable Santa Ana attorney can investigate whether healthcare professionals, such as doctors or nurses, failed in their duty of care, contributing to your child’s condition.
Handling Complex Medical Cases: Birth injury cases like HIE involve intricate medical details and procedures, making them challenging to understand. An attorney with experience in Santa Ana will be well-versed in both the medical and legal aspects of these cases, helping you navigate the complexities.
Collecting Evidence: A Santa Ana-based attorney will conduct a thorough investigation, gathering medical records, consulting with experts, and collecting all necessary evidence to demonstrate how medical errors caused the HIE.
Calculating Damages: Children with HIE often require ongoing medical care, therapy, and special education. An attorney will assess the full range of damages, ensuring that compensation covers not only current expenses but also long-term care costs and other future needs.
Negotiating Settlements: An experienced attorney in Santa Ana can negotiate with hospitals, doctors, and insurance providers on your behalf. They’ll work to ensure any settlement offer is fair, given the severity of the situation and the lifelong implications of HIE.
Pursuing Litigation if Necessary: If a settlement can’t be reached, a skilled attorney will be ready to take the case to trial, representing your family’s interests in court and fighting for the maximum compensation you deserve.
Providing Emotional Support and Guidance: The legal process can be emotionally challenging for families. A dedicated attorney in Santa Ana will offer both legal expertise and support, guiding you through each step and ensuring you understand your rights.
Ensuring Compliance with Deadlines: There is a limited time to file a medical malpractice or birth injury lawsuit. A Santa Ana attorney will make sure your case is filed within the statute of limitations, protecting your right to seek compensation.
Choosing the right attorney in Santa Ana can make a significant difference in ensuring your child receives the support and care they need after an HIE diagnosis.
Symptoms of hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) can vary based on the severity of the brain injury and the specific areas of the brain affected. Common long-term symptoms that may be seen in children with HIE include:
It’s important to remember that not all children who exhibit these symptoms have HIE, and some infants with HIE might not show signs immediately after birth. Early diagnosis and intervention are key to improving outcomes. As the child grows, therapies like physical, occupational, and speech therapy can play a vital role in supporting children with HIE-related difficulties.
If your child has been diagnosed with hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) due to medical negligence, contacting an experienced HIE attorney in Santa Ana is essential. The attorneys at Ikuta Hemesath have decades of experience in handling complex medical malpractice cases, including HIE claims, and have consistently achieved favorable results for their clients. HIE cases are complicated and require specialized legal knowledge. Our Santa Ana HIE attorneys are well-equipped to navigate these complexities and work toward the best possible outcome for your family. Contact us today for expert legal guidance and support.
Get in touch today, and take the first step towards reclaiming your peace of mind.
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