Cauda Equina Syndrome and Severe Disability Compensation
Complete cauda equina syndrome causes severe and permanent disability in those individuals who are unfortunate enough to suffer with this appalling condition. When is a compensation claim an appropriate way forward?
What is complete cauda equina syndrome?
Cauda equina syndrome is a neurological condition caused by compression of the cauda equina nerves at the base of the spine.
It is generally a progressive condition where mild symptoms deteriorate over time to the point where nerve function is lost and the patient suffers a range of distressing and debilitating symptoms.
In its early stage, it is referred to as 'incomplete' because there is some degree of nerve function still effective and the patient still retains some sensation and movement.
As time passes, however, the compression of the nerves continues and more and more function is lost.
Ultimately, an individual with complete cauda equina syndrome is likely to suffer the following problems:
- Loss of bladder sensation and function
- Bowel incontinence
- Sexual dysfunction
- Loss of lower limb mobility
Medical negligence
Clearly, it is desirable that this appalling condition is diagnosed and treated at the earliest possible moment. This should enable the patient to retain their remaining nerve function and possibly to recover some lost function.
If diagnosis and treatment are delayed to the point where the patient has already lost bladder sensation and is suffering from painless retention of urine, their long-term outlook may be less positive.
If medical professionals are responsible for the delay in diagnosing a patient which produces this poor outcome, they may be regarded as having provided negligent care.
Both diagnosis and surgery can be a matter of emergency.
A delay is examination, diagnosis or a referral for a crucial MRI scan may all be regarded as substandard care. A delay by a hospital in arranging an MRI scan or in arranging decompression surgery may also be regarded as negligent.
Claiming compensation
The degree of disability caused by cauda equina syndrome can be utterly life-changing, depriving the individual of the capacity to work or to remain independent. A successful compensation claim, where appropriate, can take into account the financial losses and costs caused by the negligence of the medical professionals involved.
If you or a loved one are facing the difficulties of cauda equina syndrome due to poor-quality medical care, contact Glynns Solicitors, specialists in medical negligence compensation.
We have supported numerous claims for cauda equina syndrome negligence and one of our team of expert solicitors will be very happy to discuss your situation with you.
If you or a loved one are struggling with the appalling impact of this condition due to medical negligence, contact us to speak with a specialist medical negligence solicitor about your situation.
Please call us on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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