Cauda Equina Compression Red Flags and Compensation for Medical Negligence
Any suggestion that a patient may be exhibiting the red flag symptoms of cauda equina nerve compression needs to be taken very seriously. Cauda equina syndrome is a medical emergency and, if medical professionals fail to recognise or act upon these worrying symptoms, the patient may be left facing a lifetime of significant disability.
The sinister implications of compression of the cauda equina nerves
Compression of the cauda equina nerves in the lumbar region of the spine will affect the crucial function which these nerves provide as a conduit for messages between the lower body and the brain. The body is constantly receiving messages in relation to its internal and external environment and constantly responds to those sensations through movement of the muscles. If neither the messages of sensation nor those of movement can be channelled through the body, the patient will increasingly lose function. In the case of compression of the cauda equina nerves, this function loss can include loss of mobility, loss of sensation of bladder fullness, leading to overflow incontinence, loss of sexual sensation and function, and loss of bowel control.
Red flag symptoms and negligent medical care
The red flag symptoms which should raise a medical professional's concerns could include the following:
- Symptoms of bilateral sciatica; pain, altered sensation or weakness in both legs
- Difficulty in emptying the bladder, having to strain, a poor flow or reduced awareness of urinating
- Altered sensation in the saddle area between the legs and around the anus
- Altered awareness of needing to go to the toilet
A patient who is exhibiting some of these symptoms in addition to lower back pain may be in need of an emergency MRI scan to assess the condition of their spine and a delay in achieving this can significantly alter their long-term outcome.
The relevant medical professionals may be regarded as having been negligent and it may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation for the consequences of the negligent care.
Compensation for medical negligence
A patient who suffers the impact of negligent medical care is legally entitled to compensation which should address the consequences of the negligence. This could include, for example, a loss of earnings, the costs of care and equipment or the cost of adaptations to their home as necessary.
The impact of medical negligence in relation to cauda equina compression can be utterly life-changing and a successful claim can help to address the many challenges which the patient may now face.
Speak to a legal specialist
Glynns Solicitors is a dedicated medical negligence legal practice with specific and extensive expertise in cauda equina syndrome claims.
We can offer No Win No Fee funding for medical negligence claims which we will discuss with you during your free initial telephone discussion.
Please call us on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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