Cerebral Palsy Resulting From Chicago Medical Malpractice
By Matthew Willens
Jun. 15, 2015 11:26a
A child with cerebral palsy requires a lifetime of care and therapy. Cerebral palsy is a syndrome with several symptoms. A child who suffers from cerebral palsy may have disorders of posture and movement. A child may get cerebral palsy because of a
birth injury or during early development in the womb. A child who has cerebral palsy is usually diagnosed within the first few months of life due to delays in reaching developmental milestones.
What is Cerebral Palsy?
Cerebral palsy is a cumulative term used to define the damage to or abnormal development of the motor centers of the brain. By definition, palsy means paralysis and describes the uncontrolled movements of muscles. The condition occurs as a result of the abnormal function of the cerebral cortex. Cerebral palsy is a description of physical and neurological abnormalities in a child.
Cerebral palsy may occur during pregnancy, after birth, or during early childhood. According to statistics, approximately 5-10 percent of cases of cerebral palsy are the result of a birth injury. Other possible causes of cerebral palsy are related to improper prenatal care, abnormal development of the brain, preterm birth, or a brain injury that occurs during the first few years of life.
When Cerebral Palsy Results From Medical Malpractice
Parents may choose to file a birth injury lawsuit if the cause of their child’s cerebral palsy is related to medical malpractice. A key factor for a birth injury lawsuit is the question of the life expectancy of the affected child. Many studies have been conducted to determine the life expectancy of children who are affected with cerebral palsy. In one such study, it was found out that children who are seriously disabled in all four functional disability categories have only a 50 percent chance of surviving through their 13th birthday. Their chances of surviving to age 30 is only 25 percent.
Life Expectancy for Children with Cerebral Palsy
For children who suffer from mild to severe disabilities, the question of life expectancy becomes even more difficult. There are no reliable studies because a child may have a wide variety of cerebral palsy variables such as epilepsy or no motor function. There have been some studies that have constructed a life table form to estimate the life expectancy based on actuarial practices. One such commonly referred to database is the Mersey cerebral palsy register.
Chicago Cerebral Palsy Lawyer
It is an unfortunate fact that children with cerebral palsy have a very difficult life ahead of them. In addition, their parents must cope with the emotional and mental trauma of caring for a sick child. Children with cerebral palsy and their families need resources and a support system to successfully care for their child. If you believe your child’s cerebral palsy is a result of a birth injury caused by medical negligence, talk with a
Matt Willens birth injury lawyer from
Willens Law Offices to learn about your legal options. Call us today at
(312) 957-4166 for a free consultation.
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