Babies most often suffer from brain damage when born with a lack of oxygen. Brain damage can be life-long and sometimes even fatal.
Recently, a new study using cooling blankets placed over the heads of babies who were born with insufficient oxygen proved successful. The study used simple blankets with tubes of cold water running through it and reduced the babies' temperatures to 91 degrees over a 72 hour time period. In doing so, the babies' body systems slowed, requiring less energy, and reducing swelling in their brains. Furthermore, doctors concluded that the blanket can prevent lasting brain damage, and reduce the risk of seizures, cerebral palsy, and death.
This procedure would be the first form of therapy for brain damage in babies. Currently, it is only used in academic medical facilities.
If you or someone you love suffers from brain injury, contact the Chicago brain injury attorneys of Friedman & Bonebrake at 312-466-8200 to learn more about your rights.