Understanding PAIS And How It Impacts Your Newborn

Perinatal arterial ischemic stroke (PAIS) is a type of stroke that occurs shortly before, during, or after birth. Although relatively rare, PAIS is one of the most common causes of neonatal brain injury and can have significant long-term consequences when it isn’t promptly diagnosed and properly treated.

Doctors must recognize PAIS early to minimize long-term consequences and improve the outcomes for newborns affected by it. Early diagnosis allows for early medical intervention, significantly improving the baby’s potential for recovery and quality of life. Parents and medical providers must work together to closely monitor newborns for signs of PAIS to ensure immediate medical attention if symptoms are suspected.

What Is Perinatal Arterial Ischemic Stroke (PAIS)?

PAIS is a specific form of ischemic stroke that occurs in the perinatal period, which is typically defined as the time shortly before birth to one month after birth. It involves a blockage in one of the arteries supplying blood to the baby’s brain, depriving the brain tissue of oxygen and nutrients.

This disruption can lead to permanent brain damage depending on the severity and location of the stroke. Unlike strokes in adults, which are often linked to factors like high blood pressure or cholesterol, PAIS is more closely associated with complications during pregnancy, labor, or delivery.

The key differences between PAIS and other types of strokes include the timing of occurrence, the underlying causes, and the methods used for diagnosis and treatment in newborns. Unlike hemorrhagic strokes that are caused by bleeding, PAIS is specifically ischemic, meaning it stems from blocked blood vessels, not ruptured ones.

What Are The Causes And Risk Factors Of PAIS?

Several factors can increase the likelihood of PAIS in newborns:

In Utero Factors

Maternal health conditions like infections, diabetes, and preeclampsia can compromise blood flow to the baby, increasing the risk of PAIS. Placental insufficiency (when the placenta fails to provide adequate nutrients and oxygen) is another significant contributing factor.

Prematurity

Babies who are born before 37 weeks of pregnancy are particularly vulnerable to PAIS. This is due to their underdeveloped blood vessels and the increased likelihood of requiring medical interventions that could compromise blood flow.

Birth-Related Factors

Difficult or prolonged labor, birth trauma, and complications like umbilical cord prolapse can result in reduced oxygen supply to the baby’s brain. Emergency cesarean sections and assisted deliveries with forceps or vacuum extractors may also pose risks.

Genetic Predispositions and Clotting Disorders

Some newborns may have an inherited tendency to develop blood clots, making them more susceptible to PAIS. Genetic conditions that affect blood clotting, like Factor V Leiden mutation, can increase this risk.

Symptoms and Diagnosis of PAIS in Newborns

Identifying PAIS early requires awareness of its most common symptoms, which include:

• Seizures within the first 24-72 hours of life
• Floppy or stiff muscle tone
• Weakness or lack of movement on one side of the body
• Difficulty feeding or lethargy

Doctors and other medical providers use a combination of clinical observations and advanced imaging techniques to diagnose PAIS. Magnetic resonance imaging, or MRI, is the gold standard for detecting brain injuries associated with PAIS. Ultrasound and cranial CT scans may also be used. Neurological exams and monitoring of developmental milestones help in ongoing evaluation.

What Are The Long-Term Effects Of PAIS On Your Newborn?

The long-term impacts of PAIS depend on the severity and location of the brain injury. Some potential outcomes include:

• Motor skill challenges, including difficulty with coordination and muscle control
• Developmental delays affecting speech, cognition, and behavior
• Neurological disorders such as cerebral palsy

How Can Medical Malpractice Contribute To PAIS?

Medical malpractice happens when doctors, nurses, or other medical professionals do not meet the accepted standard of care and it causes injury to the patient. Regarding PAIS, medical malpractice can occur when:

• Medical professionals fail to monitor fetal distress
• Birth complications are mishandled
• There is delayed intervention during labor emergencies

Additionally, inadequate monitoring of maternal or fetal health during pregnancy and delivery can result in undiagnosed complications, increasing the risk of PAIS. For example, a missed diagnosis of preeclampsia could lead to placental insufficiency, or a failure to perform a timely c-section in cases of umbilical cord compression could deprive the baby of oxygen. Or, a baby that is even slightly hypoxic at birth is at an increased risk for a stroke.

Parents whose children suffer from PAIS due to medical negligence have legal options. Pursuing a malpractice claim can help secure compensation for medical expenses, therapies, and other support services. Taking legal action also holds the responsible parties accountable and prevents future incidents from occurring.

How To Find A Medical Malpractice Lawyer In Pennsylvania

If you believe your child’s PAIS was caused by medical negligence, you need the help of an experienced medical malpractice attorney. At Ross Feller Casey, we handle birth injury cases and have a history of securing justice for families affected by medical negligence. We understand the emotional and financial toll cases like these can take on families. We also know that a medical malpractice case cannot reverse the injury your child suffered. However, it can ease your financial burden, and at Ross Feller Casey, we are dedicated to fighting for the compensation you deserve.

Contact Ross Feller Casey today for a free consultation to discuss your case. Let us help you take the first step toward securing your child’s future and holding negligent parties accountable.