Cauda Equina Compression Delayed Diagnosis and Compensation
A delayed diagnosis of cauda equina nerve compression can leave the patient with permanent disability. If this has happened to you or a loved one, it may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation.
Cauda equina compression
The cauda equina nerves in the lumbar region of the spine are crucial to effective lower body function. If these nerves are becoming compressed, it is essential that the problem is diagnosed as promptly as possible and that decompression surgery is carried out to prevent further loss of nerve function and associated lower body sensation and function.
Cauda equina compression is not common but occasionally the nerves can become squashed or compressed by a nearby condition such as a herniated disc or the development of a tumour. The compression of the nerves usually worsens over time meaning that it is often possible to identify the early symptoms and intervene in time to prevent deterioration.
The early symptoms
Early signs that an individual may be suffering from compression of the cauda equina nerves can include the following:
- Lower back pain
- Sciatica-style symptoms in the lower limbs, especially where both legs are affected
- Altered sensation in the saddle area
- Altered bladder or urinary experience such as loss of sensation or having to strain
If compression of the cauda equina nerves is delayed too long, the patient may suffer from loss of bladder and bowel function, as well as loss of sexual function and lower limb mobility.
Delayed diagnosis of cauda equina compression
A delay in the diagnosis of this life-changing condition can occur for a variety of reasons:
- A medical professional may fail to recognise the significance of the patient's symptoms, producing a misdiagnosis
- A medical professional may not recognise the need for a referral for an emergency MRI scan
- A medical professional may fail to carry out a thorough assessment for additional indicators of cauda equina compression
- A medical professional may fail to warn a patient of the red flag symptoms, meaning that their attendance at hospital is delayed until it is too late to avoid severe and permanent symptoms.
Claiming compensation
Cauda equina syndrome is a complex condition and the assessment of medical negligence requires the skills and experience of a specialist lawyer.
Glynns Solicitors is a dedicated medical negligence legal practice with considerable expertise in cauda equina claims. Contact us to talk to a specialist solicitor, free of charge, about your situation and the suitability of making a claim for compensation.
Please call us on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
Make An Enquiry
Why Choose Us
- Specialist medical negligence solicitors
- Free initial enquiries
- No win, no fee available
Reviews
Our Expertise
Helping Clients Across England & Wales
