Bladder Dysfunction and Compensation for Cauda Equina Negligence
Substandard medical care resulting in bladder dysfunction may justify a claim for compensation.
Bladder function and cauda equina syndrome
Complete cauda equina syndrome is characterised in part by painless retention of urine in the bladder due to loss of nerve function. This may be accompanied by urinary overflow, or incontinence. The impact of such a fundamental level of dysfunction can be life-changing and, where medical negligence has contributed to this appalling outcome, may justify a claim for compensation.
If an individual is developing cauda equina compression, it is essential that every attempt is made to diagnose their condition and carry out decompression surgery before they lose bladder sensation and control. Beyond this point, it would seem that recovery of function or a successful outcome from surgery is less likely than if surgery had been carried out at an earlier stage. Cauda equina syndrome is a medical emergency and a failure by medical professionals to recognise that fact or, indeed, to recognise the symptoms of this debilitating condition can be devastating for the patient.
Unfortunately, a patient with complete cauda equina syndrome is unlikely to find that their symptoms are restricted to bladder dysfunction. They are also very likely to be experiencing bowel dysfunction, loss of mobility and loss of sexual function and sensation. The overall picture is grim indeed.
When is it appropriate to make a claim for compensation?
- When the patient's outcome has been significantly affected adversely by the quality of their medical care. This may be in terms of a failure to examine the patient, an early misdiagnosis, a failure to warn about red flag symptoms or a delay in carrying out surgery. Negligence in relation to cauda equina syndrome is likely to relate to a decision by a medical professional which causes a delay in diagnosis and treatment
- If the patient suffers financial losses as a result of their poor-quality care such as a reduced income due to the impact of their symptoms on the nature and duration of employment they can manage
- The law requires that claims for negligent medical care must be initiated within three years of the date of the alleged medical negligence.
Legal advice
If you or a loved one are struggling with the shocking impact of cauda equina syndrome due to negligent medical care, contact Glynns Solicitors, the specialists in medical negligence law.
Please call us on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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