Albuquerque HIE Attorney

Ready to Help Your Family

When a newborn suffers complications during labor and delivery, the effects can be life-changing for the entire family. One of the most devastating birth injuries is Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy (HIE), a condition caused by oxygen deprivation to the brain. If your child has been diagnosed with HIE, you may be facing overwhelming medical costs, uncertainty about the future, and questions about whether medical negligence played a role. At McGinn Montoya Love Curry & Sievers PA, our team is here to help families pursue justice and compensation. If you’re searching for an experienced Albuquerque HIE lawyer, we are ready to stand by your side.

To get started with a free consultation, call (505) 405-4441 or contact us online.

What is Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy?

Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy, often abbreviated as HIE, is a type of brain injury caused by a lack of oxygen (hypoxia) and reduced blood flow (ischemia) to an infant’s brain during pregnancy, labor, or delivery. Even a short period of oxygen deprivation can cause permanent damage to developing brain cells, leading to serious and lifelong complications.

HIE is considered one of the most severe birth injuries because it can affect multiple areas of a child’s development, including motor skills, cognitive ability, and overall health. The severity of the injury depends on how long the brain was deprived of oxygen and how quickly medical professionals responded to the emergency.

When HIE occurs, it is not always an unavoidable complication. In many cases, timely and appropriate medical intervention could have prevented the injury. This is why families turn to an experienced Albuquerque HIE attorney to investigate whether negligence or medical errors were involved.

Common Causes of HIE

HIE can develop due to various complications during pregnancy or delivery. Some of the most common causes include:

• Delayed C-Section – When doctors fail to perform a C-section promptly during fetal distress, oxygen deprivation can occur.
• Umbilical Cord Complications – Prolapsed, compressed, or wrapped umbilical cords can restrict blood and oxygen flow to the baby.
• Placental Abruption – If the placenta detaches from the uterus prematurely, the baby may not receive adequate oxygen and nutrients.
• Uterine Rupture – This rare but serious complication can interrupt oxygen supply to the fetus.
• Prolonged Labor or Delivery Complications – Extended labor increases the risk of reduced oxygen flow to the infant.
• Failure to Monitor Fetal Distress – Medical staff are required to monitor fetal heart rate patterns. Missing or ignoring signs of distress can result in preventable brain damage.
• Maternal Infections or High-Risk Pregnancy Conditions – Conditions such as preeclampsia or gestational diabetes, if not properly managed, can increase the likelihood of HIE.

Doctors and nurses have a duty to identify these risks early and act quickly to protect both mother and child. Failure to do so may be considered medical negligence.

Long-Term Effects of HIE

The consequences of HIE can vary greatly depending on the severity of the injury. Some children may recover with minimal issues, while others face lifelong challenges. Potential long-term effects include:

• Cerebral Palsy – A motor disorder that affects movement, muscle control, and coordination.
• Seizure Disorders – Children with HIE are at higher risk of developing epilepsy.
• Developmental Delays – Delayed milestones in walking, talking, or learning.
• Cognitive Impairments – Issues with memory, problem-solving, and overall intellectual development.
• Speech and Language Disorders – Difficulty communicating effectively.
• Behavioral and Emotional Challenges – Anxiety, ADHD, or social interaction difficulties.

These conditions often require extensive medical care, therapy, assistive technology, and long-term support. The financial and emotional burden on families can be overwhelming, which is why pursuing compensation with the help of our Albuquerque HIE attorney is so important.

Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy FAQs

How do I know if my child’s HIE was caused by medical negligence?

Only a thorough investigation can determine whether negligence occurred. An experienced attorney will review medical records, consult experts, and identify if medical staff failed to meet the standard of care.

Is there a time limit to file an HIE claim in New Mexico?

Yes. New Mexico law imposes a statute of limitations on medical malpractice claims. This makes it critical to speak with an attorney as soon as possible to preserve your rights.

What kind of compensation can I recover?

Compensation may cover medical expenses, rehabilitation, special education needs, assistive technology, and damages for pain and suffering. Each case is unique, so the amount varies depending on circumstances.

Can HIE be prevented?

In many cases, yes. Proper monitoring of the mother and baby during pregnancy and delivery, timely response to complications, and appropriate interventions such as emergency C-sections can reduce the risk.

Do I need a lawyer experienced in birth injury cases?

Absolutely. Birth injury cases are highly complex and require both legal knowledge and medical expertise. An experienced Albuquerque HIE attorney can build a strong case and fight for the compensation your family deserves.

Contact us today at (505) 405-4441 for a free consultation.