Birth Injury Claims: What you need to Know about Hypoxic Ischemic Encephalopathy (HIE)

The HSE have launched an external review into the births of 9 babies at Portiuncula University Hospital in Co Galway born between 2023 – 2025. According to reports, 7 of the children born underwent therapeutic brain cooling to reverse the effects of a lack of oxygen during delivery. Two of the infants were sadly stillborn.

Many questions will be raised about how and why such a high number of babies have been affected in a short space of time.

In this article, our Sorcha King explores what HIE is, how it is treated, and what a diagnosis means for a child.

What is Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy (HIE)?

HIE can be a life-threatening condition where the brain is deprived of oxygen and blood supply leading to a brain injury. It often occurs during or shortly after birth due.

What causes Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy?

The most common causes of HIE in newborns are:

  • Lack of oxygen during or shortly after birth
  • Umbilical cord issues (cord prolapse, cord entanglement, or cord compression)
  • Placental insufficiency
  • Complications during labour and delivery leading to a failure of the foetus to receive adequate oxygen

What are the symptoms of Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy?

Symptoms vary depending on the severity of the condition, abut common symptoms include:

  • Poor muscle tone (floppiness or stiffness)
  • Difficulty breathing or irregular breathing
  • Seizures
  • Abnormal reflexes
  • Weak or absent sucking or feeding
  • Lethargy or inability to stay awake

How is Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically involves:

  • Clinical examination of the baby’s physical condition and neurological signs
  • Imaging tests like MRI or CT scans to assess brain injury
  • Blood tests

 What is the role of therapeutic hypothermia in treatment?

Therapeutic hypothermia, or cooling therapy, is the most widely accepted intervention for newborns with moderate or severe HIE. Cooling the infant’s body temperature to around 33-34°C for 72 hours has been shown to reduce brain injury and improve neurological outcomes.

What is the prognosis of Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy?

The prognosis of HIE depends on the severity of the brain injury and how quickly treatment is provided. Babies with mild HIE often recover without long-term effects, while those with moderate or severe HIE may experience:

  • Developmental delays
  • Cerebral palsy
  • Intellectual disability
  • Seizure disorders

Conclusion

A brain injury to a child is a frightening diagnosis for any parent. If you have concerns about your child’s birth and its relationship to any traumatic injury, you can speak to  Sorcha King or one of our other medical negligence solicitors  on 091-865000 or by email to info@callantansey.ie, to schedule a consultation.

*In contentious business, a solicitor may not calculate fees or other charges as a percentage or proportion of any award or settlement.

The above information is not healthcare advice. The information provided is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment provided by your own medical doctor. Always seek the advice of a doctor or medical professional if you have concerns about your health.

 

Sorcha King