Cauda Equina Compression Diagnosis and Compensation for Negligence
Cauda equina compression, causing loss of lower body function is a fairly rare condition. However, when it does happen, it can completely disrupt an individual's quality of life and that of their loved ones. Early diagnosis and surgery is crucial to a good outcome. Medical negligence and delays can be catastrophic and may justify a claim for compensation.
Diagnosis of cauda equina compression
Successful diagnosis of cauda equina compression requires competent and timely action on the part of your medical professional followed by a prompt MRI scan to confirm the underlying cause of the patient's symptoms.
An MRI scan is an essential part of this process and may be considered to be an emergency. If a hospital is unable to provide this service as needed, it is essential that arrangements are made to transfer the patient promptly to the nearest facility where provision is available. A failure to do so may be regarded as negligent and, if the patient suffers severe deterioration and debilitating consequences as a result, may justify a claim for compensation.
However, in order for an MRI to be requested, it is necessary for a medical professional to recognise or suspect the implications of the patient's symptoms as possibly indicative of cauda equina compression.
- A failure to recognise that the symptoms, such as bilateral leg pain, altered saddle sensation and urinary symptoms, may indicate cauda equina compression may be regarded as negligent
- A failure to carry out an assessment of the patient may also be regarded as negligent
- A failure to understand the urgency of the patient's condition may cause a delay in a referral, and a delay in diagnosis and surgery, thereby rendering the patient disabled and seeking compensation
Compensation for medical negligence
If a patient suffers a poor long-term health outcome due to negligent medical care, which would not have been the case with an acceptable level of care, they are legally entitled to compensation for the consequences.
Cauda equina syndrome is a powerful example of how negligent medical care and delays in the medical pathway can utterly destroy an individual's physical integrity and quality of life.
Where appropriate, a successful compensation claim can go some way towards putting right the damage that has been caused by providing recompense for the financial losses suffered. This could include the patient's loss of earnings as well as the costs of care where this has proved necessary.
Speak to legal specialists
Glynns Solicitors is a dedicated medical negligence legal practice with a wealth of expertise in high-value cauda equina syndrome claims.
Contact us today to speak with a solicitor, free of charge, about the possibility of making a claim.
Please call us on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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