Medico-Legal Considerations in the Context of Neonatal Encephalopathy and Therapeutic Hypothermia

Neonatal encephalopathy (NE) is a significant complication of the peripartum period. It can lead to lifelong neurologic disabilities, including cerebral palsy, cognitive impairments, developmental delays, and epilepsy. Induced hypothermia is the first therapy, which has shown promise in improving the outcomes for neonates with moderate to severe NE following a presumed intrapartum insult.NE is also a frequent source of medical malpractice litigation. In this paper, we will review salient features of the American Tort System as it pertains to medical malpractice.

Source: Seminars in Fetal and Neonatal Medicine - July 7, 2021 Category: Perinatology & Neonatology Authors: Jonathan M. Fanaroff, Michael G. Ross, Steven M. Donn, Newborn Brain Society Guidelines and Publications Committee* Source Type: research