Bone Fractures in Newborns

Bringing a newborn into the world should be one of life’s happiest moments. Families plan for it, carefully picking out a name, themes for the nursery, and dreams for this new little human. However, when a baby suffers an injury at birth because medical providers dropped the ball, that joy can quickly turn into heartbreak and confusion for families.

Sadly, bone fractures—common in newborns—are often injuries that could have been avoided with proper care. At Beam Legal Team, we understand the profound pain, anger, and hardship families face in these situations, and we are committed to pursuing justice and compensation on their behalf.

Understanding Broken Bones in Newborns

Fractures in newborns occur for many reasons. While some fractures are unavoidable, like when the nature of the delivery is challenging, others can be directly linked to inadequate medical care.

Some common fractures seen in newborns include:

• Clavicle (Collarbone): This is the most frequently fractured bone during childbirth, often resulting from shoulder complications.
• Humerus and Femur: The arms and legs may be broken if excessive force is used during delivery.
• Skull Fractures: These devastating injuries are often caused by the use of delivery tools like forceps or vacuum extractors.

Causes of Broken Bones During Childbirth

As mentioned, some fractures may truly be unavoidable, but many of these injuries are preventable. Common causes include:

• Difficult or Prolonged Labor: Failure to monitor fetal distress or perform a timely C-section increases the risk of fractures.
• Improper Use of Delivery Tools: Misusing forceps or vacuum extractors can break bones.
• Breech Birth and Abnormal Presentations: Mishandling high-risk deliveries can lead to preventable injuries.
• Excessive Force During Delivery: Applying unnecessary or excessive force can cause fractures.
• Failure to Identify and Treat Maternal Risk Factors: Conditions like gestational diabetes or macrosomia (a large baby) increase the chances a newborn will suffer fractures.

Signs and Symptoms of Broken Bones in Newborns

Signs that your newborn has suffered a fracture include:

• Crying or signs of pain when touched
• Swelling, bruising, or deformities in the affected area
• Limited movement or stiffness in a limb
• Unusual bumps or a grating sound (crepitus) at the injury site

If you notice any of these signs in your newborn, seek immediate medical attention. Addressing these symptoms right away is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Why Are Some Fractures More Serious Than Others?

Not all fractures are the same. While some heal naturally and need very little attention, others can require long-term care, such as in cases involving:

• Nerve damage
• Bones healing improperly
• Deformities

These factors can potentially affect a child’s growth and development, leading to lifelong mobility challenges.

Long-Term Effects of Serious Fractures in Newborns

All injuries and pain to an innocent newborn are devastating on every level, but when newborn fractures are serious, the pain and devastation can be lasting. Long-term effects of serious fractures include:

• Improper bone healing or deformities
• Nerve damage, such as brachial plexus injuries
• Reduced mobility or chronic pain
• Developmental delays linked to associated injuries

Early intervention can make a significant difference in how well a child recovers and in their quality of life.

When Broken Bones May Be a Result of Medical Malpractice

Medical malpractice occurs when healthcare providers fail to follow protocol and uphold their duty of care. Situations indicating malpractice may include:

• Failure to recognize fetal distress or other risk factors
• Delayed decision-making, such as not performing a timely emergency C-section
• Forceful or inappropriate use of birth-assisting tools
• Neglecting to respond to complications during labor or delivery

When these medical failures result in injuries, families deserve answers and accountability.

How Beam Legal Team Can Help

Beam Legal Team helps families harmed by preventable birth injuries, including broken bones in newborns. With decades of experience, our firm combines legal knowledge with compassionate care to make sure families are supported every step of the way. Here’s how we assist:

Dedicated Birth Injury Experience

Beam Legal Team has extensive experience handling birth injury cases, including fractures in newborns. Our proven track record demonstrates our deep commitment to getting justice and compensation for families.

Thorough Investigation

We work closely with medical experts to identify malpractice, gather evidence, and build a strong case on your behalf.

Pursuing Maximum Compensation

We fight to secure damages that include medical expenses for current and future treatments, the pain and suffering the child and family endures, and long-term care costs. Our firm has achieved record-setting results for families experiencing exactly what you’re going through.

Compassionate Support

We understand that financial hardship is only part of the journey after a birth injury. Our focus on the emotional toll birth injuries place on families sets us apart. From start to finish, we’ll be mindful of your family’s unique personal needs.

Contact Beam Legal Team Today

If your newborn has suffered a fracture that you believe was avoidable, Beam Legal Team is here to help. Contact us today for a free consultation and learn how we can fight for justice and compensation for your family.