What are the potential long-term complications for infants who experience shoulder dystocia during delivery?

The primary potential long-term complication for infants who experience shoulder dystocia during delivery is brachial plexus injury (BPI) ¹. This injury can manifest as Erb's palsy or Klumpke's palsy, potentially leading to varying degrees of weakness or paralysis in the affected arm ¹. While many brachial plexus injuries resolve spontaneously, some can result in persistent neurological deficits, impacting motor function and sensation in the arm over the long term ¹. The severity and long-term impact of these injuries depend on the extent of nerve damage and the specific nerves affected ¹. Research indicates that the specific maneuvers used during delivery for shoulder dystocia can influence the outcome for the infant (Elbarbary et al., 2024).