Dangers of a Retained Placenta after Birth

Dangers of a Retained Placenta after Birth
Dangers of a Retained Placenta after Birth

Introduction

I hope to make this article a fairly detailed understanding of what retained placenta is because it has consequences and which can have legal redress mechanisms – in particular I would like to highlight how a medical records review service can help lawyers in the US in the matter.

The period of delivering a baby has three phases from the mother’s and the child’s standpoint which is complex. A lot of emphasis has been made regarding the birth of the child but the third stage the delivery of the placenta is no less significant. In fact, it is necessary to highlight that retaining of the placenta can lead to several challenges and complications such as infections, hemorrhage and in the worst case it can lead to death as well.

Understanding Retained Placenta

What is a Retained Placenta?

  • Definition: A retained placenta is a condition that arises when the placenta fails to be expelled from the uterus within thirty minutes of giving birth to the child.

Types of Retained Placenta:

  • Placenta Adherens: Commonly seen with inadequate contractions, this is the remaining of the placenta at birth.
  • Trapped Placenta: After detachment, the placenta is trapped in the uterus because the cervix closes before its delivery.
  • Placenta Accreta: When a woman is diagnosed with Placenta Accreta, it means that the placenta has overgrown into the uterine wall, thus making surgery the only solution.

Risk Factors for Retained Placenta

  • Prolonged use of oxytocin
  • Multiple previous births
  • Preterm delivery
  • History of uterine surgery
  • In vitro fertilization (IVF)

Complications of a Retained Placenta

Potential Health Risks

  • Infections: The existence of a retained placenta can lead to life threatening endometrial infections.
  • Hemorrhage: Hemorrhage can be extensive and transfusion of blood becomes necessary.
  • Surgery: Other times a more invasive procedure is necessary in the hospital, from removing the placenta to even hysterectomy.
  • Long term issues: Complications unfortunately at times develop into chronic issues and these diminish quality of life for the mother.

Medical Malpractice and Retained Placenta

When is it Considered Medical Malpractice?

  • Failure to Diagnose: Retained Placenta being the condition where a HCP hasn’t been consulted as having one is a terrible thing.
  • Delay in Treatment: Over time, punching one’s mouth away and opting for the Injection would be a costly risk of leaving it behind.
  • Inadequate Care: Inappropriate care for postdelivery management.

Statistics and Data

  • Retention of Placenta accounted for approximately 2% of all deliveries.
  • Terrible statistic shows, in rural areas, the sheer lack of Knowledge can lead to up to a 10% death rate to do the retained placenta.

Legal Recourse for Victims

How Medical Records Review Services Can Help Attorneys

  • Comprehensive Analysis: Medical records review services are important so that it is possible to conduct a thorough examination of the medical treatment given during and after the delivery.
  • Locating Fault: Through the use of records, lawyers are able to pinpoint negligence in the standard of care which constitutes medical malpractice.
  • Collecting Evidence: Rather than supporting the claim in the presence of evidence, there are extensive reviews to ensure that the claims are voluminous in terms of evidence.

Steps to Take if You Suspect Malpractice

  1. Consult a Physician: In the event you experience signs associated with retained placenta, it is crucial to consult a healthcare specialist as soon as possible.
  2. Maintain a Record: Make sure to keep a record of each medical treatment you have sought. Also, list any further challenges that you encountered.
  3. Hire a Medical Malpractice Lawyer: Speak to a lawyer who deals in medical malpractice and has a good track record in winning such cases.
  4. .Case Studies

Case Study 1: Overview of the Case

  • Overview: 32-year-old woman retaining tropoclast after a normal delivery.
  • Challenges: After the delivery process, the healthcare service providers did not observe the woman and this caused severe hemorrhage.
  • Solutions: The woman was put on an emergency surgical procedure for the removal of tropoclast.
  • Compensation: She was awarded an amount as compensation on medical bills and her pain.

Case Study 2: Overview of the Case

  • Background: The 28 years old female has a history of uterine surgery which has led to her having complications as the placenta did not come off.
  • Challenges: The doctor failed to identify the maternal signs of a retained placenta within the required time.
  • Solutions: After doing a careful examination of her medical records, her lawyer was able to demonstrate a negligent breach of duty of care.
  • Compensation: The plaintiff ended up winning a good amount of settlement in this case.

Conclusion

It is because the retained placenta has its own level of risks that can eventually cause great suffering to one’s health. It is important to consider the legal aspects and the impact of report on the medical record review services for the patients. If any of your family or you have been a victim of retained placenta negligence, then it is advisable to seek help from a qualified lawyer who will assist you in claiming the required compensation.