Infant skull fractures can be caused by many factors, ranging from accidental injuries to underlying medical conditions. Accidental falls are one of the most common causes, particularly when infants fall from beds, changing tables, or other elevated surfaces.
Birth trauma, especially in complicated deliveries involving the use of forceps or prolonged labor, can also result in skull fractures. If a healthcare professional’s negligence caused the injury, an infant skull fracture lawyer can build a strong case against the at-fault party and help the family recover maximum compensation.
Medical Negligence Can Lead to Skull Fractures in Newborns
Medical negligence occurs when healthcare providers fail to meet the accepted standard of care during pregnancy, labor, or delivery, harming the infant or mother. A birth injury lawyer will investigate your case and determine if negligence caused the skull fracture.
Common types of medical errors that can cause infant skull fractures include:
- Improper use of forceps
- Misapplication of vacuum extractors
- Delayed or unnecessary C-section
- Inadequate monitoring of fetal distress
- Incorrect medication administration
- Failure to identify or manage birth complications
- Rough handling during delivery
In these cases, the injury could have been prevented with proper care and attention, making the healthcare provider liable for the resulting harm. An attorney can determine if you have a valid claim and help you file a birth injury lawsuit.
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Traumatic Causes of Infant Skull Fractures
Traumatic causes of infant skull fractures primarily stem from external forces that impact the infant’s head, leading to bone damage. Each type of traumatic event underscores the vulnerability of an infant’s skull and the importance of careful handling.
Falls
Falls are one of the most common causes of infant skull fractures, primarily because infants are still developing motor skills and have limited control over their movements. When an infant falls from a height (such as a bed, couch, or changing table), the impact of landing on a hard surface can result in significant trauma to the skull.
The severity of the fracture depends on factors like the height of the fall, the surface onto which the infant lands, and the angle of impact. Infants are particularly vulnerable because their skulls are still soft and not fully fused, making them more susceptible to injury. Even a seemingly minor fall can cause a fracture, especially if the head is the first point of contact.
Traffic Accidents
During a crash, the infant’s delicate skull can suffer a fracture, which is a break or crack in the bone. This is a serious injury that requires immediate medical attention. Infant skull fractures commonly occur when the child is improperly restrained or not using an appropriate car seat.
The impact forces of the collision can cause the infant’s head to hit the interior of the vehicle or another object. Skull fractures in infants can lead to bleeding, swelling, and even brain damage if not treated promptly.
Non-Traumatic Causes of Baby Skull Fractures
Non-traumatic causes of baby skull fractures are those that occur without an external impact or injury but result from underlying medical conditions or physiological factors that weaken the skull. Understanding these non-traumatic causes is crucial for early diagnosis and intervention to prevent further complications.
Medical Conditions
Medical conditions can significantly increase the risk of infant skull fractures by weakening the structural integrity of the bones, making them more vulnerable to injury.
One such condition is osteogenesis imperfecta, a genetic disorder that causes bones to be extremely brittle and prone to fractures even with minimal pressure. Infants with this condition may suffer skull fractures from normal handling or minor bumps that would not affect a healthy infant.
Another critical condition is rickets, caused by a severe deficiency in vitamin D, which is essential for healthy bone development. Rickets lead to softening and weakening of the bones, including the skull, making fractures more likely.
Additionally, metabolic disorders and certain congenital anomalies can interfere with bone mineralization and growth, further compromising the skull’s ability to withstand pressure.
Infections
Certain bacterial or viral infections that affect the bones and skull can weaken the structural integrity of an infant’s skull over time, making it more prone to fracturing. For example, osteomyelitis is a bone infection that can target the skull and lead to thinning or weakening of the bone.
Other infections like syphilis or meningitis can also attack the bones and contribute to skull fractures in infants. These infections may start gradually, with symptoms like fever, irritability, and feeding difficulties. As the infection progresses, it can compromise the strength of the infant’s skull, leaving it vulnerable to cracking, even from minor impacts or falls.
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What Happens if a Baby Has a Fractured Skull?
When the skull bone cracks or breaks, it can cause dangerous complications. The fracture may lead to bleeding and swelling around the brain, putting harmful pressure on delicate brain tissue. This can result in brain damage, seizures, and other neurological problems. Skull fractures also leave the brain vulnerable to infections.
Depending on the location and severity of the fracture, the baby may experience symptoms like persistent crying, vomiting, loss of consciousness, and abnormal eye movements. Prompt treatment can prevent further injury and long-term developmental issues. Doctors will carefully monitor the infant and determine if surgery is needed to repair the fractured skull.
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Compassionate Legal Guidance from an Infant Skull Fracture Lawyer
If your infant has suffered a skull fracture, you may be facing an emotional legal situation. An experienced infant skull fracture lawyer can provide the compassionate guidance you need during this challenging time. The Birth Injury Lawyers Group understands the unique complications of cases involving serious infant injuries.
A birth injury lawyer from our team will handle all the legal matters so you can focus on your child’s recovery. We will help you seek justice and the resources required to give your baby the best possible quality of life.
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