Why Are Forceps Still Used in Tennessee Delivery Rooms?

The entire pregnancy has been completely uneventful and hopes for an equally smooth delivery are high. But sometimes complications can happen to the most hopeful among us. Suddenly the delivery team begins to work faster and harder. Then the forceps appear and you wonder, “Are these things still used? I thought they were a thing of the past.”

However, forceps are still used to deal with complications that may arise during delivery and sometimes they can prevent injury or even save a baby’s life. But they must be used correctly and carefully, or serious injuries can result.

Forceps may be used when:

• The baby is large and delivery is difficult.
• The baby is in a breech position.
• The labor is prolonged.
• The baby is in fetal distress.
• The mother is having difficulty pushing.
• The baby is in an incorrect position in the birth canal.

Forceps injuries may include:

• Cervical spinal cord injuries, especially when there is a rotation of 90 degrees or more.
• Delay in breathing or asphyxia.
• Neurological damage.
• Facial paralysis.
• Brain bleeding.
• Skull damage and/or breaks.
• Various injuries to the mother.

As Tennessee birth injury lawyers, we feel that when forceps are used in delivery rooms, the chances of the medical personnel having the training and experience needed to use them carefully and effectively are relatively slim. Because they are used so infrequently, it is rare to find someone skilled enough to avoid injuring either the mother or the child.

If you or someone you know suspects a Tennessee birth injury could have been avoided and that the medical personnel were at fault, you should contact a birth injury attorney for advice. At Bailey & Greer in Memphis, we represent the birth injury victims of this inexcusable negligence. Call us toll free at 901-680-9777 for a free case consultation today.