Shoulder Dystocia: Overview
Shoulder dystocia is an obstetric emergency that occurs when, after delivery of the fetal head, the shoulders fail to deliver due to impaction behind the maternal pubic symphysis.
It is often unpredictable and may occur even in pregnancies without typical risk factors.
Potential complications include:
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Brachial plexus injury
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Clavicular or humeral fracture
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Neonatal hypoxia
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Maternal hemorrhage or severe perineal laceration
Shoulder dystocia cases are frequently litigated because of the risk of permanent brachial plexus injury with resulting disability.
They often overlap with broader Birth Injury litigation. Fetal monitoring interpretation may also be important in these cases.
Medicolegal Issues in Shoulder Dystocia Litigation
Common allegations may include:
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Failure to appropriately assess risk factors for shoulder dystocia and/or recommend cesarean delivery prior to labor
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Failure to perform appropriate maneuvers
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Inconsistencies in documentation and/or non-contemporaneous documentation
These cases require careful differentiation between an unavoidable complication and a deviation from the standard of care.
Why Retain Dr. Tepper for Shoulder Dystocia Cases?
He manages shoulder dystocia in active clinical practice.
In a high-volume labor and delivery unit caring for many high-risk patients, he regularly:
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Counsels patients about risk for shoulder dystocia
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Performs operative vaginal deliveries
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Executes shoulder dystocia maneuvers in real time
This practical experience allows Dr. Tepper to analyze cases with credibility and nuance.
When serving as a shoulder dystocia expert witness, he provides:
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Detailed review of labor and delivery records
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Analysis of maneuver sequence and timing
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Objective opinion regarding preventability
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Clear written reports
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Credible deposition and courtroom testimony