April 20 2006
$3 Million Dollar Settlement for Mom and Baby
David J. Pritchard and SS&P attorney obtained a $3 million dollar settlement on behalf of a mother and child both injured during delivery at Lutheran General Hospital . The settlement was approved by Judge Novoselsky in Cook County , Illinois (Court No: 99 L 12095).
In March of 1999, during delivery, the baby's shoulder became trapped behind the pelvic bone of the mother. The defendant obstetrician attempted to correct the situation by cutting a large episiotomy. By her own admission, the obstetrician then used excessive force in an attempt to free the baby, but was unable to do so. A second obstetrician, who was not named in the lawsuit, then had to come in to assist in the delivery. A second episiotomy had to be cut, and the baby was eventually delivered. Unfortunately, the multiple episiotomies resulted in devitalization of mom's perineal tissue causing permanent scaring and pain. In addition, oxygen deprivation to the fetus during the inappropriately performed maneuvers by the first obstetrician resulted in the baby eventually developing learning disabilities.
“Although this medical negligence cannot be undone”, said Kathleen A. McGinty, “this settlement will allow this child to get the best possible therapy and care to maximize his potential to try and overcome this disability.” ure medical issues related to the accident.”
