When a child suffers lack of oxygen to the brain during birth, the result can be lifelong impairment. Low oxygen resulting in brain damage can lead to cerebral palsy, a condition that affects the brain and may cause difficulty walking or immobility. When medical negligence is to blame, parents have filed a birth injury lawsuit to help cover the treatment and therapy that their children will need throughout their lives – including one of the newest options, intrathecal Baclofen therapy (ITB).

New cerebral palsy treatment shows promise

Baclofen (lioresal) is a common treatment for cerebral palsy patients, as the prescription medicine can help ease related discomfort and spastic muscles. However, Baclofen is traditionally taken orally, and the pill may disperse not only to a patient’s spine, its intended target, but also to the brain, causing disorientation and drowsiness. In fact, some patients report side effects severe enough to contraindicate use of the drug. However, a new treatment known as intrathecal Baclofen therapy, or the Baclofen pump, is a subcutaneous (under-skin) implant that delivers the calming medication directly to the spinal fluid.

Compensation for birth injuries can help pay for cutting-edge therapies

For most families, compensation from birth injuries is important to obtaining future therapies. Cutting-edge treatments for cerebral palsy can be very expensive, but without medical interventions, patients could suffer total immobility. However, despite its potential to deliver medication directly to the target area, ITB therapy may not be recommended for all patients. For example, it may not be recommended to all children, as complications from the Baclofen pump can include hallucinations, constipation, depression, seizures, and difficulty breathing. Nevertheless, Dr. Ruth Benedict, a University of Wisconsin researcher, says that ITB therapy may be recommended for some children, and that it will provide them with comfort and ease as they perform everyday activities.

Birth injury attorneys fight for your right to treatment

While the best treatment for cerebral palsy can be expensive, appropriate compensation can go a long way toward covering costs. The birth injury attorneys at Balkin & Eisbrouch understand your situation and your needs, and will help earn you compensation for your family’s injuries and suffering. Call us today for your free consultation.