Acute Cauda Equina Syndrome Missed by Accident and Emergency
Poor quality management of the red flag symptoms of cauda equina syndrome may leave the patient suffering long-term symptoms and may justify a claim for compensation.
Developing cauda equina syndrome
Patients who suffer from cauda equina syndrome have often been experiencing lower back pain for some time and their additional symptoms progress gradually as their cauda equina nerves become more compressed.
It is possible, however, for cauda equina syndrome to occur acutely, with the red flag symptoms occurring over a short period of time.
It is essential that these symptoms are recognised for what they are and that the patient receives the appropriate emergency are. Without such a response, they may suffer with loss of mobility and incontinence on a permanent basis.
Red flag symptoms of cauda equina syndrome
As the cauda equina nerves at the base of the spine become squashed or compressed, a patient can start to develop the following symptoms which might justify immediate attendance at Accident and Emergency:
- Lower back and leg pain with symptoms of tingling or weakness or numbness possibly occurring in both legs
- Altered sensation in the perineal and perianal areas between the legs and around the anus, with possible altered anal tone
- Difficulty in commencing urination or an altered flow and sensation
Accident and Emergency Responses
Depending on the clinical assessment in Accident and Emergency, the patient may need to undergo an emergency MRI scan to assess the condition of their cauda equina nerves. This may need to be followed swiftly by decompression surgery to relieve the pressure on their cauda equina nerves and prevent further loss of lower body function.
If the relevant symptoms are not recognised or a thorough assessment is not carried out, however, these crucial symptoms may be missed and the patient may be sent home unaware of the urgency of their condition.
Should the symptoms and the long-term outcome for the patient deteriorate prior to surgery due to failings in the Accident and Emergency response, it may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation.
Speak to a solicitor
If you or a loved one are struggling with the appalling, long-term symptoms of cauda equina syndrome due to poor medical care at Accident and Emergency, contact Glynns Solicitors to talk to a specialist medical negligence solicitor about the suitability of making a claim for compensation.
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