Hydrocephalus Birth Injury Lawyer In Chicago, Illinois
Last updated on June 23, 2026
Hydrocephalus is a serious condition that occurs when cerebrospinal fluid builds up in or around a child’s brain. Some cases develop because of congenital conditions, but others may be connected to preventable medical errors.
Attorney Frank Morrissey of Morrissey Legal Group, LLC, represents families in Chicago, Illinois, and the surrounding suburbs in complex birth injury matters. His work focuses on medical malpractice, including injuries that happen when doctors or hospitals fail to act with the care required during critical moments.
When Can Hydrocephalus Be Connected To Medical Negligence?
Hydrocephalus may be diagnosed through:
- Prenatal ultrasound
- Newborn imaging
- Head measurements
- Neurological exams
- Additional testing after symptoms appear
Warning signs may include:
- Rapidly enlarging head
- Seizures
- Vomiting
- Poor feeding
- Unusual sleepiness
- Developmental delays
- Bulging soft spots on the baby’s head
Not every case is caused by malpractice. However, medical negligence may be involved when providers fail to recognize known risks or delay necessary treatment. Possible concerns may include:
- Missed prenatal ultrasound findings: Doctors may fail to identify enlarged ventricles or other signs that should have led to closer monitoring.
- Untreated maternal infections: Certain infections during pregnancy can increase risks to the baby when they are not properly diagnosed or treated.
- Delivery complications: Oxygen deprivation, trauma or prolonged labor may contribute to brain injury concerns.
- Delayed C-section decisions: Waiting too long to perform a medically necessary C-section may place the baby at unnecessary risk.
- Failure to monitor newborn symptoms: A baby showing signs of pressure on the brain may need urgent testing and treatment.
A hydrocephalus birth injury lawyer can review medical records and hospital notes to determine whether providers acted within accepted medical standards.
What Compensation May Be Available?
A birth injury claim may help recover compensation for the child’s:
- Medical needs
- Therapy
- Surgeries
- Assistive care
- Developmental support
- Future treatment
Families may also seek damages for pain, suffering, disability and the financial strain placed on parents. Illinois birth injury claims are subject to strict filing deadlines. The general deadline for a child’s medical malpractice birth injury claim is within eight years of the negligent act or omission, but not after the child turns 22.
Find Out If You Have A Claim
If your child was diagnosed with hydrocephalus after a difficult pregnancy, labor or delivery in Chicago, Morrissey Legal Group, LLC, can help you evaluate what happened. Send an email or call the firm at 312-815-5856 for a free consultation.