Attorneys Seeking to Improve the Quality of Treatment for Premature Rupture of Membranes
In layman's terms, premature rupture of fetal membranes occurs when the "water breaks" at any time before the 37th week of pregnancy. While the premature rupture of membranes (PROM) only occurs in roughly three percent of pregnancies, it is the cause of approximately one third of all preterm deliveries.
Prompt and appropriate treatment of premature rupture of membranes is essential in order to prevent serious, life-threatening consequences, such as:
- Neonatal sepsis (infection)
- Placental abruption
- Umbilical cord prolapse
- Interruption of blood flow to the fetus, resulting in brain damage and cerebral palsy
The proper standard of care in cases of premature rupture of membranes is to immediately hospitalize the mother and place both mother and fetus on monitoring equipment. Amniotic infusion may be required. Depending on the stage of pregnancy at which premature rupture of membranes occurs, it may be necessary to deliver the baby preterm by Caesarian section. In these cases, corticosteroids should be administered prior to delivery in order to minimize the risk of neonatal complications like respiratory distress syndrome (RDS).
If you or a loved one suffered a premature rupture of membranes and did not receive the proper care at a hospital or other medical facility in Ohio, your best interests may be served by consulting an experienced medical malpractice and birth injury lawyer who can answer your questions and advise you of your rights and options.
Get Answers and Guidance Today
The Cleveland medical malpractice and birth injury attorneys of Lancione & Lancione, PLL, are committed to improving the quality of prenatal health care in Ohio by holding negligent physicians and hospitals to account for the harm they cause by failing to diagnose and treat serious conditions like premature rupture of membranes.
Our three generations of attorneys have substantial legal experience and a proven record of success in obtaining substantial verdicts and settlements for victims of medical malpractice and families that have been affected by birth injury. We invite you to call our Cleveland offices at 866-744-1330 or contact us online to schedule an appointment. Lancione & Lancione is proud to serve clients in Cincinnati, Columbus, Toledo, Akron and communities throughout Ohio.
