Houston Hydrocephalus Attorney

Hydrocephalus Lawyers Serving Clients in Harris County & Texas

Hydrocephalus is a serious condition that occurs when fluid builds up in the brain, causing pressure that can lead to brain damage and other complications. This condition can often be traced to preventable medical errors during pregnancy, childbirth, or immediately after delivery, such as delays in diagnosing an infection or failing to recognize and respond to intracranial complications.

If your child is suffering from hydrocephalus due to medical negligence, you and your family have the right to pursue justice and compensation. The Brothers Law Firm has the knowledge, experience, and resources needed to investigate your case, consult with top-tier medical experts, and aggressively fight to secure the compensation you need to support your child’s future.

Committed to Accessibility

At The Brothers Law Firm, our mission is to provide accessible and compassionate legal representation for all families.

Our commitment includes:

• Free Consultations: We offer complimentary case evaluations to discuss your situation and answer your questions.
• 24/7 Availability: We understand the urgency of your concerns and are available day or night to assist you.
• Virtual Meetings: If you prefer, we can meet with you virtually, so you never have to leave the comfort of your home.
• Trial-Readiness: We fully prepare every case for trial to protect your family’s legal rights and interests.

We’re here to guide you through this challenging time. Give us a call at (903) 829-3877 or fill out an online form to schedule your free case consultation with a Houston hydrocephalus attorney.

What Is Hydrocephalus?

Hydrocephalus, often referred to as “water on the brain,” is a condition where cerebrospinal fluid builds up in the ventricles, or hollow spaces, of the brain. This excess fluid can increase intracranial pressure, potentially causing brain damage, developmental delays, or other complications. While it can occur naturally, hydrocephalus is often linked to medical errors that take place during pregnancy, delivery, or neonatal care.

Negligence by healthcare providers can play a significant role in cases of hydrocephalus. For example, failing to diagnose maternal infections like meningitis, delays in identifying a brain hemorrhage in a newborn, or using delivery instruments improperly can all contribute to hydrocephalus in infants. When medical professionals fail to adhere to the standard of care, families are often left to cope with the lifelong consequences of their negligence.

Types of Hydrocephalus

Hydrocephalus is categorized into several types, depending on its cause and nature. The following are the most common forms of hydrocephalus affecting children:

• Congenital Hydrocephalus: This type develops before or shortly after birth and is often caused by conditions such as infections during pregnancy, improper fetal monitoring, or genetic abnormalities.
• Acquired Hydrocephalus: Acquired hydrocephalus occurs after birth and may result from brain infections, head trauma, or bleeding within the brain—many of which could stem from medical negligence.
• Communicating Hydrocephalus: This type happens when cerebrospinal fluid isn’t properly absorbed, causing a build-up in the brain. It can lead to severe complications if not diagnosed and treated promptly.
• Non-Communicating Hydrocephalus (Obstructive Hydrocephalus): This type results from a physical blockage preventing fluid from circulating properly. Blockages may be caused by medical errors during labor and delivery that result in structural brain damage.
• Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH): Though more common in adults, this condition can sometimes affect children following brain injuries or untreated infections.

Regardless of the type, hydrocephalus requires urgent medical care to minimize long-term damage. When the condition is a result of negligence, holding the responsible medical providers accountable can help families secure the resources they need for treatment and support.

The Impact of Hydrocephalus

Hydrocephalus profoundly affects children and their families. Understanding its prevalence, causes, and long-term implications helps illustrate why legal action is essential in cases of medical negligence.

Here are some key facts and insights about this condition:

• Prevalence: Hydrocephalus affects approximately 1 to 2 in every 1,000 live births in the United States.
• Medical Errors: A significant percentage of hydrocephalus cases in newborns are directly linked to medical negligence. Common errors include misdiagnosing or failing to address infections, delays in responding to intracranial pressure, or improper use of forceps or vacuum devices during delivery.
• Lifelong Needs: Children diagnosed with hydrocephalus often require surgical interventions, such as shunt placements, and ongoing medical care. The costs for treatment, therapy, and adaptive equipment can impose a financial burden on families.
• Developmental Challenges: Left untreated or improperly managed, hydrocephalus can lead to permanent cognitive and physical disabilities that impact the child’s quality of life.

At The Brothers Law Firm, we understand the immense challenges that families face when coping with hydrocephalus, and we’re dedicated to helping you hold negligent medical providers accountable for their actions.

Who Is Liable in a Hydrocephalus Case?

Determining liability in cases of hydrocephalus caused by medical negligence requires a detailed review of medical records, consultation with experts, and a thorough understanding of standard care practices. Potentially responsible parties may include:

• Obstetricians: Obstetricians who fail to monitor fetal health, diagnose maternal infections, or respond to complications during delivery may be held liable if their negligence leads to hydrocephalus.
• Neonatologists and Pediatricians: Postnatal care providers must monitor for signs of brain hemorrhages or intracranial pressure in newborns. Failure to act promptly may result in liability.
• Labor and Delivery Nurses: Nurses are responsible for monitoring fetal heart rates and communicating concerns during delivery. They may share liability for hydrocephalus if critical signs are ignored.
• Hospitals: Hospitals can also be held accountable for employing unqualified staff or failing to provide proper protocols for patient safety.

Identifying the root cause of your child’s condition requires careful attention to detail, and our team is committed to uncovering the truth. At The Brothers Law Firm, we have the legal acumen and resources to pursue cases against all parties responsible for this preventable condition.

Why Choose The Brothers Law Firm?

At The Brothers Law Firm, we understand the immense stress and uncertainty that parents face when their child suffers from hydrocephalus. That’s why we take a personal, client-focused approach to every case.

Our team provides:

• Individualized Attention: Every family deserves to be heard, supported, and treated with compassion.
• Open Communication: We prioritize transparency, answering all your questions and keeping you updated every step of the way.
• Trial-Prepared Cases: We meticulously prepare your case for trial to protect your rights and maximize the chances of a favorable outcome.
• Proven Results: Our dedication and expertise have earned justice for families across Texas.

We’re available 24/7 to support you. Contact us online or call (903) 829-3877 today to schedule your free consultation with a Houston hydrocephalus lawyer.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hydrocephalus Cases

What Are the Symptoms of Hydrocephalus in Newborns?
Early signs of hydrocephalus in infants include an abnormally large head size, bulging soft spots (fontanelles), vomiting, irritability, seizures, and poor feeding. These symptoms require immediate medical attention.

How Is Hydrocephalus Diagnosed?
Hydrocephalus may be diagnosed through imaging tests such as ultrasounds, MRIs, or CT scans. Physicians will also review the child’s medical history and symptoms.

What Types of Damages Can Be Recovered in a Hydrocephalus Case?
Families may recover compensation for medical expenses, ongoing care, therapy, adaptive devices, pain and suffering, parental lost wages, and, in some cases, punitive damages.