Facial palsy caused by medical negligence

When a baby is born naturally it is imperative that the birth is managed as quickly and efficiently as possible so that the baby can start breathing independently. In some circumstances, forceps are needed to ease the baby's head out but, unfortunately, this technique can lead to complications such as facial palsy, a condition which may give grounds for the pursuance of birth injury compensation.

A difficult delivery can result in damage to the baby's seventh cranial nerve, meaning the loss of control of muscle movement in the face, particularly around the lips. A simple physical examination by a specialist doctor should be sufficient to make a diagnosis.

In the majority of instances, the paralysis will improve of its own accord but if it appears to be permanent, therapy treatment should improve the situation.

Should a baby suffer from this birth injury, it is unlikely to suffer major disadvantages in life but if the parents feel it was caused by medical negligence on the part of healthcare staff and could have been avoided, they may wish to seek a compensation payment.

If that is the situation, George Ide's highly experienced and sympathetic team of medical negligence solicitors will be happy to advise and act for parents who live in West Sussex and beyond. A financial settlement may mean not only peace of mind, but also help to pay for suitable treatment

For more information about George Ide's services for facial palsy cases, please call our offices today. Alternatively, to find out about the birth injury claim team, please click on the solicitor profiles provided.