Can I Sue the NHS for Permanent Cauda Equina Dysfunction?
Cauda equina dysfunction refers to the permanent symptoms of cauda equina syndrome, the product of compressed cauda equina nerves. If medical delays in diagnosis mean that the patient suffers this condition for a lifetime, it may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation.
The cauda equina problem
The cauda equina nerves at the base of the spine can become compressed for a number of reasons. Most often, it is due to a herniated or prolapsed disc in the lumbar region, although it can also be the result or a tumour or other spinal feature which compresses or squashes the nerves.
As a result, the nerves struggle to function and, over time, their loss of function is likely to increase.
If this spinal problem is identified and diagnosed fairly promptly, the patient may achieve a good outcome from decompression surgery.
If a diagnosis is delayed, however, the extent of nerve compression and dysfunction will have increased and the likelihood of recovery of function may be significantly diminished.
Consequently, if a patient visits their GP or other medical practitioner with lower back and leg pain, it is crucial that they are carefully assessed for any indication that their symptoms are due to compression of the cauda equina nerves.
Cauda equina syndrome symptoms
Symptoms which might be indicative of the patient's problems being due to neurological rather than muscular causes, would include a loss of bladder sensation, altered sexual sensation, reduced feeling in the saddle area, and altered experience of urination, such as poor flow.
If symptoms such are this are present and yet medical practitioners fail either to identify them or to recognise their significance, the patient's long-term prognosis may be poor indeed.
The issue of timing
Ideally, cauda equina syndrome needs to be diagnosed before the patient's symptoms have deteriorated so much that they have lost sensation in the bladder. Up to this point, it would seem that there is a greater chance that the patient may recover function or, at least, not suffer further functional losses.
If medical professionals cause a delay in either diagnosis or treatment, despite the attendance of the patient with possible symptoms, it might be appropriate to make a claim for compensation.
Claiming compensation
If a patient is struggling with symptoms such as incontinence and loss of mobility, a successful compensation claim can provide recompense for their pain, suffering and financial losses. Many people with cauda equina syndrome find it difficult or impossible to work and a successful compensation claim can help with this financial situation.
Contact Glynns Solicitors today to talk to a specialist medical negligence solicitor.
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