Seattle Kernicterus Attorneys

What Is Kernicterus?

Kernicterus is a rare but serious brain injury that can occur in newborns with too much bilirubin in their blood. Usually, bilirubin is removed from the body by the liver and kidneys. However, in some cases, they may be unable to remove bilirubin as quickly as it is produced. This can lead to a buildup, which can cause kernicterus.

Kernicterus is most common in premature babies but can also occur in full-term babies. It is more common in those with certain medical conditions, such as blood disorders, infections, or heart problems. The symptoms of kernicterus can vary depending on the severity of the condition and can include the following:

The long-term effects of kernicterus can vary depending on the severity of the condition. Some children with kernicterus have no long-term problems, while others have significant disabilities. 

How Can malpractice Lead to Kernicterus?

Kernicterus can occur when medical professionals fail to diagnose or properly treat jaundice. Jaundice usually appears in newborns due to immature liver function, but if left untreated or not monitored properly, it can quickly lead to kernicterus. Healthcare providers must properly assess jaundice and take preventative measures such as phototherapy or exchange transfusion if necessary. 

Improperly performed prenatal care or delivery can also contribute to kernicterus. During pregnancy, healthcare providers should monitor maternal health and look for signs of Rh incompatibility or other conditions that may require treatment before delivery to keep bilirubin levels within normal ranges after birth. During labor, failure to carefully monitor fetal distress could lead to oxygen deprivation which could increase bilirubin production after birth. 

In short, diagnosis and treatment for preexisting conditions throughout pregnancy, careful monitoring during labor and delivery, and prompt diagnosis and treatment of jaundice are all essential steps that healthcare professionals should take to avoid kernicterus caused by medical malpractice.

If you feel that your child has developed kernicterus due to negligence, it is crucial to seek the help of an attorney as soon as possible. We can consult with you regarding your situation and help you determine whether or not moving forward with a lawsuit is in your best interest. 

How Long Will My Kernicterus Lawsuit Take to Resolve?

When filing a kernicterus lawsuit, the time it takes to go through the legal process can vary greatly depending on the individual case and circumstances. Generally speaking, these cases involve significant legal work and evidence gathering, which can often take months or even years to complete. Additionally, complex medical issues may require additional review by experts in the field that can further extend the duration of your case. 

At Carpenter & Zuckerman in Washington, we understand how important a quick resolution is for you and your family. We strive to provide our clients with personalized attention throughout every case that we take. Our attorneys are well-versed in birth injury law and have extensive experience navigating all aspects of such cases. We also remain prepared to take your case to trial if necessary; however, if a settlement is more advantageous for you and your family, we will work diligently to pursue a fair settlement. CZ can guide you through each step of the process while keeping your best interests as our priority.