On this page, we have covered the main umbilical cord complications that can lead to oxygen deprivation and conditions such as HIE and cerebral palsy. Most of these cord complications are not obvious from the external appearance of the mother; recognizing and diagnosing them requires consideration of risk factors, as well as careful monitoring and examination throughout the pregnancy. If a cord injury occurs and causes hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy, prompt administration of hypothermia therapy can help lessen the extent of the brain injury. If medical professionals fail to diagnose an umbilical cord problem in a timely fashion, do not respond with appropriate intervention (such as an emergency C-section), or do not provide hypothermia therapy, the child may be entitled to compensation from a medical malpractice lawsuit. Compensation from successful medical malpractice cases helps to defray the costs of specialized care and resources.