Cerebral Palsy: Risks and Prevention

Scientific research has discovered certain characteristics, or risk factors , which increase the possibility that a child may develop cerebral palsy. While not all instances of cerebral palsy are preventable, research has identified a number of causes of cerebral palsy that can be prevented . The following are some cerebral palsy quick facts on risks and prevention:

RISKS

Breech presentation at the time of childbirth
Complicated labor and delivery - complications during labor and delivery can potentially cause brain damage, which can lead to cerebral palsy.
Low Apgar score –Doctors assign points after checking an infant's reflexes, breathing, muscle tone, heart rate, and skin color that reflect a newborn's condition. The lower the score, the greater the risk for potential problems.
Low birthweight and premature birth
Multiple births
Nervous system malformations – Problems with development of the nervous system while in the baby is in the womb are associated with cerebral palsy.
Maternal bleeding or severe proteinuria late in pregnancy – The presence of excess proteins in the urine or of vaginal bleeding during the last trimester are linked to cerebral palsy.
Maternal hyperthyroidism, mental retardation, or seizures – If the mother has any of these conditions, the child has a slightly increased risk for cerebral palsy.
Seizures in the newborn
Fetal anoxia – lack of oxygen to the brain during fetal development or delivery can contribute to cerebral palsy.
PREVENTION
Head injury – can be prevented by using child safety seats in the car and helmets when on a bike. Close supervision and elimination of child abuse also reduce the risk of head injury.
Jaundice – can be treated with phototherapy. Severe jaundice, when left untreated, can damage brain cells. See also kernicterus.
Rh incompatibility – can easily be identified with a blood test on the expectant mother and, if necessary, the expectant father. Rh incompatibility can lead to jaundice in a newborn.
Rubella or German measles – can be prevented if the mother is vaccinated prior to pregnancy. Both of these conditions can cause damage to the developing nervous system of the fetus.
Low birthweight – may be positively affected by magnesium sulfate. Research is beginning to suggest that this chemical compound may prevent 25 percent of cerebral palsy cases due to low birthweight.
Regular prenatal care and a healthy lifestyle – is always a significant preventative measure that an expectant mother can take to try to ensure the health of her baby.
Because cerebral palsy is often preventable, failure to detect and treat risk factors during pregnancy or delivery on the part of your medical team may be a contributing factor to your child's cerebral palsy. If you wish to learn more about cerebral palsy and medical malpractice, please contact us to speak with a qualified attorney about your legal rights and options.

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