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Understanding The Medical Record In Shoulder Dystocia Cases. Why These Cases Sometimes Should Have A No-Fault Recovery, Paul A. Race

Paul A Race

Shoulder dystocia is one of the most common causes of litigation in Obstetrics and Gynecology. The most common serious complication from shoulder dystocia is brachial plexus injury although death of the baby can also occur. Brachial plexus injuries lead to paralysis of the arm of the neonate. While most of the injuries eventually resolve, a small percentage will remain permanent. This article explores the areas of litigation involved with brachial plexus injuries. It discusses what the attorney should look for in the medical record. It reviews the standard of care both pre-labor and post-labor. It also looks at the controversial …