Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy (HIE)

Experienced Georgia Medical Malpractice Lawyers Fighting for Newborns with Oxygen-Deprivation Injuries

Suthers & Harper represents families affected by hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE), a serious birth injury caused by oxygen deprivation before, during, or immediately after delivery. This condition can result in cognitive impairments, motor function issues, or severe disabilities such as cerebral palsy. Medical professionals must promptly recognize fetal distress and take immediate action to prevent irreversible harm.

A Georgia HIE lawyer at Suthers & Harper helps families hold negligent healthcare providers accountable when delays or medical mistakes cause lasting damage. If an error led to an oxygen-related birth injury or a wrongful death from birth injuries, legal action may provide financial relief for long-term care and rehabilitation.

What Causes Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy?

Doctors must monitor both the baby and mother throughout labor to identify warning signs of oxygen deprivation. HIE may result from:

• Umbilical cord complications – Cord prolapse, where the umbilical cord slips into the birth canal before the baby, can restrict oxygen flow.
• Placental issues – Conditions such as placental abruption or placenta previa can disrupt oxygen supply to the baby.
• Maternal health problems – Maternal hypotension (low blood pressure) may limit oxygen circulation, increasing the risk of fetal distress.
• Breech or shoulder dystocia – Improper positioning can lead to prolonged labor and potential brain damage.

Obstetricians must act quickly when signs of distress appear. Abnormal fetal heart rate tracings, poor umbilical cord gases, and low Apgar scores all indicate potential HIE. If doctors ignore these warning signs, the baby may suffer preventable brain damage. A Georgia birth injury attorney on our team can review medical records to determine whether medical negligence played a role.

Recognizing the Signs of HIE After Birth

Many newborns with HIE exhibit immediate symptoms that require urgent medical intervention. Doctors must carefully assess:

• Apgar scores – Low scores at one and five minutes after birth may indicate oxygen deprivation.
• Respiratory distress – Babies who require breathing support within the first few minutes of life may have suffered oxygen deprivation.
• Meconium-stained fluid – The presence of meconium in the amniotic fluid can signal fetal distress and increase the risk of inhaling harmful substances.

Doctors who fail to respond appropriately to these signs may be responsible for the harm caused. A Georgia HIE lawyer helps families hold negligent medical providers accountable.

The Long-Term Impact of HIE on Children

The severity of hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy determines its long-term effects. Some infants recover fully with proper treatment, but others develop permanent disabilities. Common complications include:

• Cerebral palsy – Motor impairments resulting from brain damage at birth.
• Cognitive delays – Learning difficulties, memory issues, and speech impairments.
• Seizures and epilepsy – Abnormal brain activity can lead to lifelong seizure disorders.
• Sensory processing disorders – Vision, hearing, and coordination problems.

Many of these conditions require lifelong therapy, assistive devices, and specialized education. A Georgia birth injury attorney helps families recover compensation to cover ongoing medical expenses and rehabilitation.

Medical Negligence in Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy Cases

Some cases of hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy occur despite the best medical care, but many result from preventable errors made during pregnancy, labor, or delivery. When doctors or medical staff fail to recognize and respond to fetal distress, the consequences can be devastating. Families may have grounds for a birth injury claim if:

• Doctors fail to order an emergency C-section – Prolonged labor, umbilical cord issues, or abnormal fetal heart rate patterns often require immediate surgical intervention to prevent oxygen deprivation.
• Healthcare providers misinterpret fetal monitoring data – Failure to detect warning signs such as abnormal decelerations or poor variability can delay critical medical decisions.
• Medical staff delay resuscitation efforts – Newborns struggling to breathe after birth require immediate oxygen support to prevent further brain damage.

Multiple parties may be liable when medical negligence leads to hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy, including:

• Obstetricians – A doctor who fails to recognize distress, improperly administers labor-inducing drugs, or delays necessary interventions may be held responsible.
• Nurses and hospital staff – Failure to monitor the baby’s condition, improper use of fetal heart monitoring equipment, or miscommunication during labor can contribute to preventable injuries.
• Anesthesiologists – Errors in administering epidurals or general anesthesia may cause maternal hypotension, reducing blood flow to the baby.
• Hospitals and birthing centers – If understaffing, inadequate training, or faulty medical equipment contributes to a birth injury, the facility itself may bear legal responsibility.

Establishing negligence requires a detailed review of medical records, expert analysis, and a strong legal strategy. A Georgia birth injury attorney investigates all potential sources of liability to ensure families receive the compensation they need for medical treatment, therapy, and long-term care.

Suthers & Harper Represents Families Impacted by Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy

Hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) can cause devastating brain injuries in newborns when doctors fail to respond to oxygen deprivation. Suthers & Harper has the resources to take on medical malpractice cases involving complex medical and scientific issues, ensuring that families have a strong legal advocate. If your child suffered HIE due to medical negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, rehabilitation, and future care. Contact Suthers & Harper to learn how we can fight for your child’s rights. You can reach our Savannah birth injury lawyers by calling 800-320-2384 or through our secure online contact form.