Nuchal cords, while relatively common, can cause life-altering injuries for families if not managed properly. As such, medical providers must closely monitor pregnancies, and plan accordingly (should the condition develop). Negligent medical providers should be held liable for all damages they have caused. Families may be compensated through a medical malpractice claim.
What is a Nuchal Cord?
A nuchal cord happens when the umbilical cord wraps completely around a baby's neck in the womb. This occurs in up to 29% of all pregnancies, becoming more common as pregnancy progresses. While most cases don't cause problems, mismanaged nuchal cords pose long-term impairments for children. When the cord is tight, it can: [1]
- Compress blood vessels
- Block blood flowing into the baby while blood continues flowing out
- Lead to low blood volume and oxygen problems
Nuchal cords that are present before labor rarely fix themselves. As such proper handling during delivery is paramount in ensuring an infant’s well-being. Conversely (and fortunately), nuchal-cord-free pregnancies usually remain safe from complications during labor.
Got Long-Term Injuries from Mismanaged Nuchal Cord?
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How Are Nuchal Cords Diagnosed?
Before deliveries, doctors must sufficiently assess both maternal and fetal conditions – which includes checking for nuchal cords. Various tests may be utilized to diagnose this condition, the most accurate tests being: [1]
Ultrasound with Color Doppler
This is notably the most reliable method. This test works best if done after the 36th week of gestation. It can spot up to 72% of single-loop nuchal cords; and up to 94% of multiple-loop nuchal cords.
Manual Neck Test
This method is up to 82% accurate, but can only diagnose the presence of the condition – not its extent. In this method, doctors gently press on the baby’s neck through the mother’s belly. A drop in fetal heart rate will confirm a nuchal cord.
Sound/Vibration Test
This method utilizes a special medical device that sends vibrations inside the womb. Certain heart-rate patterns indicate the likelihood of a nuchal cord.
Possible Workarounds
Doctors have various means of working around this complication. Doctors must keep a close eye on the mother during pregnancy to mitigate any further complications from developing. At the same time, should they fail to alleviate the nuchal cord, various delivery techniques should ensure the safety of both mother and child. These workarounds include:
During Pregnancy
- Regular monitoring at prenatal visits with fetal heart rate checks
- Prescribing exercises that promote good fetal position
- Ongoing assessment via ultrasound to track cord position
- Kick-counting to monitor fetal movement and well-being
- Working with healthcare providers to develop a comprehensive birth plan that accounts for the nuchal cord
During Delivery
- Position changes during labor to help the baby descend optimally
- Somersault birth technique - where the baby is delivered without unwinding the cord
- Careful management during the pushing phase to prevent cord compression
- The "slip and reduce" technique performed by skilled providers to gently loosen the cord if accessible
- Emergency cesarean section if needed based on fetal distress
Doctors who fail to uphold accepted standards of care should be held liable for all damages that are caused to families.
Adverse Outcomes of Mismanaged Nuchal Cord
Mismanaged nuchal cords can lead to serious injuries for both mother and child. These injuries are one of the key elements that could help you establish a medical malpractice claim. Some of the long-term adverse effects include (but are not limited to):
For Children
- Cerebral palsy
- Reduced motor function
- Respiratory issues
- Cognitive impairments
- Sensory impairments (seeing, hearing, etc.)
- Death
For Mothers
- Pelvic floor dysfunction
- Chronic pains
- Reduced reproductive capacity
- Psychological and emotional trauma
All medical expenses (past and future) are considered in a medical malpractice claim. In birth injury cases, compensation ensures that an injured child is provided with all the necessary support for their growth and development. Injured mothers must also be allowed to return to their healthiest state.
Seeking Medical Compensation for Nuchal Cord Injuries?
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Compensation for Nuchal Cord Injuries
According to the National Practitioner Data Bank, in 2023, medical malpractice cases in New York were settled at about $492,476 on average. During the same period, medical malpractice cases were settled at about $420,631 on average across the entire United States. Naturally, more severe injuries warrant larger compensation.
Apart from medical expenses, other economic and non-economic losses are also factored in. Lost income, emotional trauma, and decreased quality of life are some of the more common considerations. For actual compensation figures, please refer to our previous wins.
Speak to a Medical Malpractice Lawyer Today
At the Porter Law Group, our team of proven medical malpractice lawyers delivers ideal results. We take pride in helping families rebuild after unfavorable circumstances. We operate on a contingency basis – meaning you do not need to pay us anything unless we win your case. Through this approach, we can better support families during their times of need.
If you or a loved one has been a victim of medical malpractice, please reach out to us for a non-obligatory free case evaluation. You can also contact us at 833-PORTER9 or info@porterlawteam.com to schedule a consultation.
