Chorioamnionitis

A Birth Injury Medical Malpractice Overview with Baltimore Chorioamnionitis Lawyer Mark Kopec

Chorioamnionitis is a bacterial infection of the membranes that surround the fetus (amnion and chorion) and the fluid within the amniotic sac. It can occur before, during, or after labor. If your child has been injury, you may have a birth injury medical malpractice claim. Call Baltimore chorioamnionitis lawyer Mark Kopec at the Kopec Law Firm.

Understanding the Anatomy

Before delving into chorioamnionitis, let’s briefly review the anatomy of pregnancy:

• Uterus: The muscular organ that houses and also nourishes the developing fetus.
• Placenta: An organ that develops in the uterus during pregnancy. It provides oxygen and nutrients to the fetus and then removes waste products.
• Amniotic Sac: A fluid-filled sac that surrounds and protects the fetus.
• Amniotic Fluid: The fluid within the amniotic sac that cushions and protects the fetus.

Causes of Chorioamnionitis

• Ascending Infection: The most common cause. Bacteria travel from the vagina or cervix into the uterus.
• Hematogenous Spread: Bacteria enter the bloodstream and travel to the placenta.
• Premature Rupture of Membranes (PROM): When the amniotic sac breaks before labor begins, it increases the risk of infection.
• Prolonged Labor: Labor that lasts longer than expected can increase the risk of infection.
• Multiple Vaginal Examinations: Frequent vaginal exams during labor can introduce bacteria into the uterus.

Baltimore chorioamnionitis lawyer Mark Kopec can assess your medical condition and advise you on a potential birth injury claim.

Symptoms of Chorioamnionitis

• Maternal Symptoms:
  • Fever
  • Tachycardia (rapid heart rate)
  • Uterine tenderness
  • Foul-smelling vaginal discharge
  • Elevated white blood cell count
• Fetal Symptoms:
  • Increased fetal heart rate
  • Decreased fetal movement

Diagnosis of Chorioamnionitis

• Physical Examination: A healthcare provider will perform a physical exam, including checking for fever, uterine tenderness, and vaginal discharge.
• Laboratory Tests:
  • Blood tests: To check for infection and inflammation.
  • Amniotic Fluid Analysis: To identify the presence of bacteria in the amniotic fluid.
• Imaging Studies:
  • Ultrasound: To assess the condition of the fetus and placenta.

Treatment of Chorioamnionitis

• Antibiotics: To treat the infection.
• Delivery: In most cases, delivery is the best course of action to treat chorioamnionitis and protect the fetus. This may involve inducing labor or performing a cesarean section.

Baltimore chorioamnionitis lawyer Mark Kopec will assess the treatment you received and its impact on a birth injury lawsuit.

Bad Outcomes Associated with Chorioamnionitis

• Premature Birth: Chorioamnionitis can lead to premature birth, which can then have serious health consequences for the baby.
• Sepsis: A life-threatening blood infection that can occur in both the mother and the baby.
• Respiratory Distress Syndrome: A condition that affects premature babies and then makes it difficult for them to breathe.
• Cerebral Palsy: A group of disorders that affect muscle tone, movement, and also coordination.
• Developmental Delays: Chorioamnionitis can increase the risk of developmental delays in children.

Medical Malpractice Claims with Baltimore Chorioamnionitis Lawyer Mark Kopec

• Misdiagnosis or Failure to Diagnose: If a healthcare provider fails to diagnose chorioamnionitis in a timely manner, it can lead to serious complications for the mother and baby.
• Delayed Treatment: If treatment for chorioamnionitis is delayed, it can increase the risk of complications.
• Improper Treatment: If a healthcare provider administers the wrong antibiotics or fails to deliver the baby in a timely manner, it can lead to serious complications.

Damages Recoverable in a Medical Malpractice Claim

• Medical Expenses: Past and future medical expenses for both the mother and the baby.
• Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the physical and emotional pain and suffering experienced by the mother and baby.
• Wrongful Death: In the event of the death of the baby, damages may be recoverable for wrongful death.

Next Step: Call Baltimore Chorioamnionitis Lawyer Mark Kopec

If you believe you or your child has been injured due to medical malpractice, it is important to consult with an experienced attorney to discuss your legal options.

Visit our free consultation page or video. Then contact the Kopec Law Firm at 800-604-0704 to speak directly with Attorney Mark Kopec. He is a top-rated Baltimore birth injury lawyer. The Kopec Law Firm is in Baltimore and pursues birth injury cases throughout Maryland and Washington, D.C.