Cauda Equina Nerve Damage Misdiagnosed
A misdiagnosis of cauda equina nerve damage could leave a patient suffering permanent disability. It may also justify a claim for compensation.
Compression of the cauda equina nerves
The cauda equina nerves at the base of the spine are absolutely crucial to effective lower body sensation and function.
If damage to or compression of these nerves is misdiagnosed or there is a delay in diagnosis, the long-term outcome for the patient can be catastrophic. Without timely surgery, the patient may suffer incontinence and loss of mobility for the rest of their life.
The cauda equina nerves can become compressed, or squashed, if, for example, a herniated disc or a tumour starts to press onto them. If this process continues without the condition being diagnosed, the nerves will gradually lose their ability to function.
The cauda equina nerves are responsible for much of the lower body sensation and movement and so the outcome of misdiagnosed cauda equina nerve compression can be utterly life-changing.
Consequently, compression of the cauda equina nerves needs to be diagnosed at as early a stage as possible in order to ensure that surgery is carried out to decompress the nerves before all function is lost.
Diagnosis of cauda equina syndrome
If there is a delay in diagnosis and decompression, the patient may continue to lose function.
Initially, diagnosis is through clinical assessment but it requires the patient to undergo an MRI scan in order to confirm that the patient's symptoms are being caused by the compression of the nerves.
Therefore, recognition of the possible symptoms and making a prompt referral for an MRI scan are the key to a timely diagnosis and surgery. A failure to recognise the possible symptoms, a delay in making a referral for a scan and a delay in decompression surgery may all contribute to the patient suffering a worse outcome than would have been the case with more efficient and timely care.
The impact of cauda equina compression
If diagnosis and surgery are delayed, the patient may suffer permanent disability. This can limit an individual's ability to work and earn a living. It can cause a significant loss of income as a result. It may also necessitate a change of accommodation and the support of personal care.
If substandard medical care has contributed to such a shocking outcome, it may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation.
Speak to a legal specialist
If you or a loved one are struggling with cauda equina syndrome due to medical negligence, contact Glynns Solicitors, specialists in medical negligence compensation. We have extensive expertise in cauda equina negligence and one of our team of experienced lawyers will be very happy to talk to you, free of charge, about the suitability of making a claim for compensation.
Speak to a specialist solicitor
Glynns Solicitors is a specialist medical negligence legal practice with extensive expertise in maternal birth trauma claims. Contact us to day to talk to one of our experienced lawyers about your situation.
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