Hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) is a serious condition that affects newborns when their brain is deprived of oxygen and blood flow. This lack of oxygen can damage brain cells and lead to lasting disabilities.
If you suspect your child has HIE and believe medical negligence may have been a factor, then you have a chance to file a lawsuit. However, proving liability in a HIE case requires you to extensively understand the condition, its causes and symptoms, and, most importantly, how it is diagnosed.
Lucky for you, we’ve taken the time to compile this detailed article to educate you on everything regarding the HIE and its diagnosis.
Overview of Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy: Definition and Causes
HIE translates to “lack of oxygen (hypoxic) and blood flow (ischemic) to the brain (encephalopathy)”. During pregnancy and childbirth, a baby relies entirely on the mother’s oxygen supply.
Any disruption in this flow, whether it’s due to complications during labor and delivery, placental issues, or any other factor at all, can starve the baby’s brain of oxygen. When this happens, the baby is at risk of cell death and brain injury.
There are various factors that can increase the risk of HIE. Some common causes include:
- Difficult labor and delivery: This can include prolonged labor, instrumental delivery (using forceps or vacuum), or placental abruption (when the placenta separates from the uterine wall prematurely).
- Umbilical cord problems: A prolapsed cord (when the cord slips into the birth canal before the baby) or knotted cord can restrict the flow of oxygen to the baby.
- Infections: When there are viruses or bacteria in the mother’s body system, the baby might not get sufficient oxygen.
- Multiple pregnancy: The chances of complications that can trigger HIE are higher with twins, triplets, or more babies.
- Maternal health conditions: Preeclampsia (high blood pressure during pregnancy) and other health issues can also affect the flow of blood to the baby.
Symptoms of Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy
Here are the most common signs that indicate the baby is suffering from HIE:
- Seizures
- Floppy muscle tone (hypotonia) or increased muscle tone (hypertonia)
- Difficulty feeding
- Weak cry
- Abnormal breathing patterns
- Lethargy or coma
How Is Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy Diagnosed?
Before doctors can diagnose HIE, they take into account several factors, including the following:
- Medical history: They’ll first evaluate information about the pregnancy, labor, and delivery, as well as any permissible risk factors for HIE in the baby’s situation.
- Physical examination: The doctor will assess the baby’s muscle tone, reflexes, and overall responsiveness.
- Apgar score: This is a quick test that evaluates a newborn’s health at one and five minutes after birth. The test is not definitive, however, a low Apgar score can indicate potential problems.
- Blood tests: These can check for signs of infection or metabolic problems that might have contributed to HIE.
Diagnostic Tests For HIE
Here are some imaging techniques that can provide valuable information in the diagnosis of HIE in babies:
Head ultrasound (HUS)
This is a non-invasive test that uses sound waves to create images of the brain. This test can detect signs of bleeding or swelling in the brain.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
An MRI is a more detailed test compared to an HUS. It uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of the brain.
An MRI can be more helpful in diagnosing HIE, especially if performed a few days after the baby’s birth when brain injury becomes more evident.
Electroencephalogram (EEG)
An EEG is used to measure the electrical activity of the brain and can help detect seizures or abnormal brain function.
Wrapping Up
The arrival of a new baby is meant to be an occasion of joy and celebration. This joy will certainly be short-lived if the baby gets diagnosed with conditions that impact the rest of their life.
Understanding how HIE is diagnosed is an important first step for families who suspect their child may have been affected by medical negligence during childbirth.
Hiring a lawyer to kickstart the legal process is the next step to take after the diagnosis has been made.