delivery of a 36 week gestational age female complicated by a nuchal cord and shoulder dystocia resulting in a severe left Brachial Plexus arm injury

DAVID WARD (Raleigh)   After two weeks of trial in Moore County, North Carolina, a jury rendered a Defense Verdict for an OB/GYN physician. The case involved the delivery of a 36 week gestational age female, 7lbs, 7 oz, complicated by a nuchal cord and shoulder dystocia resulting in a severe left Brachial Plexus arm injury. Plaintiffs alleged the physician caused the injury by applying excessive traction or pulling on the head during delivery. The defense argued that the delivery was an emergency and that the physician provided excellent care. In addition, the defense argued the injury was caused by the expulsive forces of the Mother before the physician touched the infant.