Improper management of shoulder dystocia
An Erb's palsy was diagnosed after the delivery of a California infant weighing 9 lb, 8 oz in 1997.
An Erb's palsy was diagnosed after the delivery of a California infant weighing 9 lb, 8 oz in 1997. The patient sued the obstetrician and claimed that negligence during delivery resulted in the Erb's palsy, and that there had been a lack of informed consent regarding a trial of labor due to the risk of shoulder dystocia. She also argued that fundal pressure was improperly used when the shoulder dystocia occurred and that a McRobert's maneuver was not used.
The obstetrician argued that the injury to the brachial plexus was most likely sustained when the shoulder was stuck as a result of uterine contractions and not from any action of the physician. A defense verdict was returned.
Newsletter
Get the latest clinical updates, case studies, and expert commentary in obstetric and gynecologic care. Sign up now to stay informed.
Trimethoprim–sulfamethoxazole not found to increase infant birth weight in HIV cases
July 9th 2025A recent randomized trial found no significant improvement in birth weight or key birth outcomes from antenatal trimethoprim–sulfamethoxazole prophylaxis in human immunodeficiency virus-positive pregnant women.
Read More
