Many Texas babies are delivered via cesarean birth rather than natural birth. Cesarean delivery is often planned to address specific medical conditions or complications. One such condition is placenta previa, where the placenta covers part of the cervix, necessitating a C-section. Rather than risk injury to the newborn, a C-section could help overcome issues that make natural birth too risky for mother and child, such as an umbilical cord wrapped around the infant’s neck. However, like any surgical procedure, a C-section has its own risks.
Bowel injuries sometimes occur during surgical procedures
Although they occur rarely, birth injuries related to the mistaken cutting of the bowel duct, known as a bowel injury, are among the risks that mothers face with a C-section. While making the abdominal incision for the C-section, a surgeon might accidentally pierce the bowel duct. While initially difficult to detect, the mother typically undergoes an initially gradual decline in health followed by a more rapid onset of potentially life-threatening complications, including a high fever caused by internal leaking of fecal matter.
During a cesarean section, the occurrence of such injuries, although rare, can significantly impact patient outcomes and hospital stay. The type of uterine incision made during the procedure also plays a crucial role in the overall success and safety of the surgery.
Bloating and distension may manifest as noticeable swelling and expansion in the abdominal area. Alterations in bowel movements, like diarrhea, constipation, or blood in the stool, can indicate changes in bowel habits. Fever and infection might present with symptoms such as chills, fever, and signs of infection, including redness, warmth, or discharge at the site of the incision.
Abdominal pain and fever often occur after surgical treatment
When the bowel duct is perforated, fecal matter and other bodily waste wind up leaking and infecting healthy tissue and organs. This condition can also increase the risk of developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT), particularly after a cesarean birth. Many victims experience excruciating stomach pain followed by a high fever and increasingly lower blood pressure. The longer the problem goes unchecked, the more likely the mother will suffer a potential loss of life, contributing to maternal and neonatal mortality. Surgery is the only solution and often includes multiple procedures to ensure that the wound is closed and all fecal matter is rinsed and washed from internal organs and other threatened tissue. In some cases, a pelvic fracture may necessitate scheduling a cesarean birth in advance. A long stay in an expensive intensive care unit could trigger medical malpractice claims.
During a cesarean birth, a permanent birth control procedure, such as tubal ligation, may also be performed. An attorney from Davis & Davis experienced in medical malpractice cases may help to litigate birth injuries related to the mistaken cutting of the bowel duct. Cutting the uterus to deliver the baby weakens the uterus, increasing the risk of uterine rupture in future pregnancies. Cesarean delivery is often considered as an alternative to vaginal birth, depending on specific maternal or fetal conditions. A consultation may help you to learn how your case might proceed and how to present your legal argument. Call us today at (888) 522-9444 or fill out a contact form.
