Can I Get Compensation for Permanent CES Symptoms?
The short answer to that question is that it depends on the circumstances of your diagnosis and the timing of your decompression surgery. This article will explain why these factors matter.
The significance of timing for surgery
Timing of surgery is absolutely crucial if a patient is suffering from cauda equina syndrome.
Cauda equina syndrome, caused by compression of the nerves at the base of the spine, can develop gradually or suddenly. The patient is likely to notice initially that they are suffering with lower back pain. Their symptoms may then spread to the legs, bladder, bowel and saddle area.
If the patient undergoes decompression surgery before they lose bladder sensation, it would seem that they have a greater chance of recovering the function which they may have already lost. This could be control of their urinary function, sensation in the saddle area or sexual sensation and function.
If surgery does not take place until after the patient has lost total bladder sensation and may be suffering leakage or incontinence of urine, their chance of recovery is less and they may be left with permanent loss of lower body function including incontinence of both bladder and bowel.
A crucial diagnosis
This means that the timing of diagnosis of cauda equina syndrome is fundamental to the patient's long-term outcome.
When the patient visits a medical professional with possible symptoms of cauda equina syndrome, it is vital that they undergo a thorough assessment for any sign of neurological (nerve) dysfunction such as loss of sensation or alteration in urinary function.
If the patient is exhibiting such signs and the medical professional fails to respond appropriately, such as making an emergency referral for an MRI scan, the patient's symptoms may deteriorate before a correct diagnosis is made.
If the deterioration in the patient's symptoms means that he or she then suffers a worse outcome after surgery, it is possible that the medical professional who failed to act on their CES symptoms may be regarded as having acted negligently.
In these circumstances, it may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation for the on-going problems which the patient would not have suffered had their diagnosis been made more promptly.
Speak to a solicitor
If you or a loved one are suffering permanent CES symptoms such as incontinence and loss of mobility due to a delayed diagnosis, contact Glynns today.
We have supported numerous clients in making highly successful claims for cauda equine syndrome negligence and will be very happy to advise you.
Please call us on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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