Meconium aspiration syndrome (MAS) occurs when a newborn inhales a sticky mixture of mucus, amniotic fluid, bile, and other substances just before or during birth. While it can cause serious breathing problems and respiratory distress, it is treatable if it is caught right away. However, if a healthcare provider misses the warning signs, it may lead to permanent lung damage. If this has happened to your child, you may have grounds to pursue a malpractice claim. A Connecticut meconium aspiration lawyer from Berkowitz Hanna can help you understand your options and fight for justice.
Recognized as one of the top medical malpractice law firms in the state, we have recovered over $400 million in verdicts and settlements. Our birth injury attorneys work with trusted medical specialists to investigate birth injuries and advocate for families like yours. We have a commitment to hold health care providers accountable when preventable harm occurs.
Meconium is essentially a baby’s first stool. It is a dark green tar-like substance that the baby usually passes within 48 hours after birth. If passed in utero, however, it can mix with amniotic fluid, and the baby could inhale this mixture before or during delivery, leading to airway blockage, lung inflammation, or infection. This is called MAS.
Certain warning signs, such as abnormal fetal heart tones, require urgent medical attention. If you believe your child suffered complications from breathing in meconium because your provider failed to act promptly or used improper delivery techniques, a Connecticut attorney can evaluate whether that care met the legal standard.
Consequences of MAS may include:
Prompt recognition and action are critical in preventing serious complications from MAS.
A malpractice claim in this state must show that the care you received fell below the standard of care expected of a similarly trained provider. Proving this requires expert witnesses. Our legal team works closely with specialists to support each case we handle.
According to Connecticut General Statutes § 52‑190a, you must obtain a written opinion from another health care professional to show a good faith belief that you have grounds to file a medical malpractice complaint. Our lawyers in Connecticut can handle every step of this procedural requirement to ensure your meconium inhalation case complies with state law.
We examine delivery notes, fetal monitoring strips, and postnatal records to show that your child’s injuries were directly caused by provider error. Every detail can be vital to establishing legal liability.
If malpractice caused or worsened your child’s condition, a successful claim may include damages for:
Our legal team will work to value both immediate and future costs to ensure that your family receives the much-needed support to manage any long-term challenges. We also coordinate with life care planners to estimate your child’s future needs and ensure that the compensation sought reflects those realities.
We understand that birth injuries are emotionally draining. Our Connecticut medical malpractice attorneys can guide you through every step of your child’s MAS case with care, clarity, and dedication.
If you suspect medical negligence contributed to your child acquiring MAS, we can help. A Connecticut meconium aspiration lawyer from Berkowitz Hanna can assist in building a strong legal case and holding the responsible parties accountable.
Contact us for a free consultation. Our team will assess your situation and explain the next steps. We will support you and advocate for the outcome your family deserves.
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