Attorneys Working to Improve the Safety and Quality of Care in Cases of Preterm Labor in Ohio
Preterm labor — labor that occurs before the 37th week of pregnancy — and preterm delivery can be very risky for both mother and child. Appropriate treatments may include the use of drugs during labor to delay delivery by stopping or reducing contractions. Treatments for preterm labor are designed to reduce the risk of complications resulting in brain damage or respiratory distress syndrome. Unfortunately, the treatments for preterm labor carry risks, as well.
The Risk of Drugs Used to Arrest Labor
Magnesium sulfate and nifedipine are termed tocalytics, or drugs used during labor to reduce contraction and prevent or delay preterm delivery. A 2007 study by researchers at Lucile Packard Children's Hospital and Stanford University School of Medicine suggests that the administration of magnesium sulfate to arrest labor increases the risk that newborn will be admitted to a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). Magnesium sulfate is also known to cause vomiting, shortness of breath, fluid buildup in the lungs and other unpleasant and dangerous side effects. Further, studies show that magnesium sulfate is no more effective at delaying delivery than nifedipine.
If the risk of serious side effects and life-threatening complications is higher with magnesium sulfate, why do many doctors still prefer its use over nifedipine or another tocalytic? Studies suggest the reason is simple force of habit.
Failure to Arrest Preterm Labor
Without appropriate treatment, preterm labor can result in premature birth. Children born prematurely are at an increased risk of a host of serious health conditions and may suffer lifelong physical or mental disability.
When a child is harmed because a physician fails to follow accepted protocol and negligently allows preterm labor to continue, it is vitally important to consult an experienced medical malpractice attorney. At Lancione & Lancione, PLL, we are working to improve the safety and quality of medical care in Ohio by holding negligent doctors, nurses, hospitals and other medical facilities to account for the harm they cause.
Contact an Attorney Regarding Preterm Labor Injuries
If you, your child or a loved one suffered serious injury due to a medical mistake during preterm labor, you should seek the advice of an experienced medical malpractice and birth injury lawyer immediately. We invite you to call our Cleveland offices at 866-744-1330 or contact us online at any time. Lancione & Lancione is proud to serve clients in Cincinnati, Columbus, Toledo, Akron and communities throughout Ohio.
