Amniocentesis Errors

Amniocentesis, or amnio, is a prenatal test that requires that a needle be inserted into the abdomen to sample the amniotic fluid. This test is used to diagnosis a variety of genetic abnormalities and other problems that could occur with a baby. The test is typically performed in conjunction with an ultrasound to ensure that the fetus is not harmed by the needle in the process of performing the test.

The biggest risk of having amnio performed is that it may, depending on the source, increase the chances of a miscarriage. Some tests are more conclusive than others and all of the sources disagree on how much of an increase in the amount of risk there is. One test says that there is no difference in the chance of miscarriage between those who undergo amniocentesis and those who do not.

One of the biggest issues of amniocentesis is not in the application or administration of the test but rather in the interpretation of the amniotic fluid. Some of the problems being tested for may be things that a family might need time to prepare for. Some of the items that are tested may be successfully treated if there is enough notice given. In any situation, a missed diagnosis or erroneous diagnosis can be damaging to a family.

Another problem in an amniocentesis analysis error is that the doctor may falsely say that a baby is going to be fully healthy and then the baby ends up not being fully healthy. In a recent case in another state, this was enough to constitute negligent infliction of emotional distress.

Contact a Pennsylvania Birth Injury Attorney

If your baby has been the victim of a birth injury, contact the Pennsylvania birth injury attorneys of Lowenthal & Abrams, P.C., at 610-667-7511.