Learning From the Law: A Review of 21 Years of Litigation for Anesthetic Negligence Resulting in Peripartum Hypoxic Ischemic Encephalopathy

Abstract

(Anaesthesia. 2022;77:919–928)

The authors of this study reviewed 367 negligence claims in the United Kingdom in order to highlight anesthesia-service related errors. Specifically, they reviewed cases of hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy (HIE), which is caused by interrupted oxygen supply to the fetal/neonatal brain. The causes and effects range, but HIE may lead to a neonate requiring lifelong care. Verified maternity negligent claims are expensive and represent a comparatively large quantity of claims submitted to and granted by the NHSLA. In addition, because peripartum HIE is so severe, millions of pounds can be awarded decades after the inciting incident took place. Anesthetists are often included in obstetric and HIE negligence claims as they play an integral role in the wellbeing of both mother and child.