Medical Liability Consultants, Inc. Glossary Medical Malpractice

Brachial Plexus Palsy Brachial plexus palsy is one of the types of brachial plexus palsy injuries that occurs when the nerves at the neck and shoulder joints are stretched, torn or bruised. This is classified as a birth injury and is not always preventable. However, in some cases, brachial plexus palsy is a result of excessive pressure applied to the baby's head or other forms of medical malpractice. Causes of Brachial Plexus Palsy Brachial plexus palsy typically occurs as a result of damage sustained to the neck and shoulder areas during childbirth. This usually happens when the baby comes out in such a manner that its shoulder gets stuck behind the pelvis. There are several risk factors that can increase the risk of this happening, such as: Large baby Breech birth (head-last delivery) Mother is overweight Mother has small or oddly shaped pelvis Prolonged labor Use of forceps or vacuum extraction While some cases of brachial plexus palsy may be inevitable, many can be averted. It is up to the obstetrician and other physicians to ensure that all the precautions necessary to prevent brachial plexus palsy and other injuries are taken.

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