Necrotizing Enterocolitis Lawsuit Attorneys

Charleston, West Virginia lawyers recover compensation for victims of toxic baby formula

In their first days and weeks, some infants have trouble latching on to their mothers. Feeding the child formula derived from cow’s milk might make a bad situation worse, contributing to a disease called necrotizing enterocolitis. This occurs when a newborn’s colon and intestine break down, creating a possibly deadly condition. The necrotizing enterocolitis lawsuit attorneys at Calwell Luce diTrapano PLLC in Charleston, West Virginia have the knowledge and experience to enforce the legal rights of victims’ families when this grave medical problem is the result of negligence. 

What is necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC)?

NEC is a potentially deadly disease that destroys intestinal tissue. It can affect newborns and is especially dangerous to infants born prematurely. The baby might experience vomiting, difficulty retaining food, diarrhea and swelling of the abdomen. In some cases, the intestines of premature infants are not able to digest food properly, leading to bacteria that causes NEC. Newborns who have been sick or fed concentrated baby formula might also have difficulty staving off this serious illness.

Causes and risk factors of NEC

There are many possible causes associated with NEC, and in some situations, multiple risk factors might exist. Typically, infants born prior to the 37th week have difficulty breastfeeding. This might lead a doctor to direct that the premature newborn be fed using a formula made from cow’s milk. However, these products have been linked to intestinal inflammation among recently delivered children, which might allow NEC-causing bacteria to enter their systems. Congenital heart disease, irregular blood pressure and sepsis could also be triggers for NEC. 

Steps to take if your child contracts NEC due to medical negligence

The days and weeks after a child is born can be overwhelming, especially if your newborn is having feeding or medical problems. You should not hesitate to get medical help once you suspect something is wrong. Should the possibility of NEC be mentioned or if your infant suffers persistent vomiting or diarrhea, make sure your doctor explains the risks of treatment in detail and discusses the potential danger associated with cow’s milk formula. Have someone write down or record what the doctor says so that you have a full record of the information you were provided before making a decision regarding treatment. 

Legal options for families affected by NEC

If a healthcare professional or institution failed to follow established standards for the prevention or treatment of NEC, you might be entitled to relief by bringing a medical malpractice action. It is critical to speak to a qualified attorney as soon as possible to determine whether you may have a hospital negligence case, a claim against an individual doctor or a potential lawsuit against a formula manufacturer. Preparing a medical malpractice claim requires extensive preparation and expert support for the allegation that proper care was not used. 

Compensation for victims of NEC-related birth injuries

The compensation available for an NEC-related negligence claim can vary greatly depending on the extent of the harm and the ultimate outcome. Plaintiffs might collect damages for medical expenses, lost parental income and the emotional distress experienced by mothers and fathers as a result of the malpractice. They might also be compensated for the pain the child endured and for any permanent effects of the NEC. In the worst cases, a wrongful death claim might be filed to recover final expenses and other damages associated with the tragic loss. When you meet with one of our birth injury lawyers, we can outline what type of compensation might be available. 

Contact a West Virginia lawyer regarding an NEC claim

If your child suffered from necrotizing enterocolitis shortly after their birth, the Charleston, West Virginia attorneys at Calwell Luce diTrapano PLLC can review the facts of your case and pursue appropriate legal relief if negligence contributed to causing the condition. Please call 304-400-6558 or contact us online to schedule an appointment.