Fetal ultrasounds use sound waves to produce pictures of the developing fetus, helping doctors monitor the baby’s growth and detect any potential issues. They are a routine part of prenatal care in the United States, with most pregnant women receiving at least one ultrasound during their pregnancy. Despite their common use, misdiagnosis can occur, leading to significant consequences for both the mother and the child. Several studies show that the false-positive rate for fetal ultrasounds is around 8.8%, while the rate of diagnostic misclassification is approximately 9.2%, but a New York Times article put those rates closer to ten times those numbers for genetic testing.
Common examples of misdiagnosis and their consequences
Misdiagnosis during fetal ultrasounds can be due to poor image quality, lack of technician training or misinterpretation of the results. Here are some common examples of misdiagnosis and their potential impacts:
- Undiagnosed genetic abnormalities: Sometimes, genetic conditions like Down syndrome or spina bifida go undetected during the ultrasound. This can lead to a lack of necessary preparations and medical interventions, affecting the child’s quality of life.
- Misdiagnosed fetal growth issues: If a doctor and technician inaccurately monitor the baby’s growth, the misinformation can result in complications during delivery. For example, a baby that is too large for a vaginal delivery might suffer from shoulder dystocia, leading to brachial plexus injuries.
- Unidentified maternal infections: Infections in the mother, such as Group B Streptococcus, can be missed during an ultrasound. If untreated, these infections can pass to the baby during delivery, causing severe health issues like meningitis.
- Placental problems: Misdiagnosis of placental issues, such as placenta previa or placental abruption, can lead to severe bleeding and complications during delivery, posing risks to both the mother and the baby.
Medical negligence causes can also include errors such as using outdated equipment, failing to follow up on abnormal findings or not referring the patient to a specialist when necessary.
Holding medical professionals accountable
If a misdiagnosis leads to injury or harm, families can seek compensation for medical expenses, ongoing care and emotional distress. Legal action can help hold negligent medical professionals responsible for their mistakes and drive improvements in medical practices to prevent future errors. Families affected by misdiagnosis can consult with a knowledgeable and effective legal professional with experience handling medical malpractice to understand their rights and the steps they can take to seek justice.