Pennsylvania NICU Introduces Hypothermia Treatment for At-Risk Newborns

A Pennsylvania hospital has introduced hypothermia treatment for newborns who may have experienced hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE). Infants that sustained brain injuries during birth may be at risk for developing HIE, a disorder that is caused by a lack of oxygen and blood flow to the brain during labor or delivery. HIE may occur due to complications during labor and delivery, such as maternal infection (like Group B strep), preeclampsia, uterine rupture, placental abruption, delayed C-section, fetal distress, among other issues. HIE may also lead to cerebral palsy.

Cooling treatment (hypothermia) is often used on babies born at risk for brain damage. The therapy aims to decrease a baby’s body temperature to slow the progression of brain cell damage. After 72 hours of cooling, the baby’s temperature is gradually brought back up to normal and then the child continues to receive NICU care. Since some hospitals do not have the ability to practice this head and body cooling standard of care yet, babies in need of the treatment are typically quickly transferred to a hospital that can provide a higher level of care. For parents in the Chester County, PA area, this treatment is now available to those who qualify.

The news comes at a fitting time, as the month of March is brain injury awareness month. This month, we shed light on the causes of brain injuries to eliminate the stigma that often surrounds brain injuries.

Contact our Birth Injury Lawyers Experienced in Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy (HIE) Injuries

If you believe your child has suffered a hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) injury at birth, our Chicago birth injury lawyers may be able to help you.