Cauda Equina Syndrome Delays and Claiming Compensation
Complete cauda equina syndrome is a disabling and deeply distressing spinal condition which can utterly undermine the patient's quality of life. Any unnecessary delays in the process of diagnosis or treatment may be regarded as negligent and may justify a claim for compensation.
Crucial timing in medical intervention for CES
The development of cauda equina syndrome often occurs over a period of time. This means, on the one hand, that there may be an opportunity to diagnose this debilitating condition before the patient develops the most severe symptoms. On the other hand, the period of time over which the condition develops can be short and, consequently, any delays can be crucial to the patient's long-term outcome.
If medical professionals cause a delay which allows the patient's condition to worsen, which would not have occurred with an appropriate level of care, a successful compensation claim can address the consequences of the negligence on the patient's health and quality of life.
Clinical negligence and cauda equina syndrome
Clinical negligence in relation to the diagnosis and treatment of cauda equina syndrome can occur at a number of points during the care pathway including the following:
- A failure to recognise the possible implications of the patient's early CES symptoms
- A failure to carry out a thorough assessment of the patient for any additional signs or symptoms of cauda equina syndrome
- A misdiagnosis of the patient's symptoms, thus providing inappropriate reassurance to the patient and delaying a referral for further investigation
- A delay in making a referral for an MRI scan to confirm the underlying cause of the patient's symptoms
- A delay in arranging or reporting an MRI scan, or incorrect assessment of an MRI scan
- A delay in arranging surgery to decompress the spine when a diagnosis of cauda equina syndrome has been made
Claiming compensation
If a patient suffers a worse outcome following negligent medical care than should have been the case, they are entitled to claim compensation for the impact of that negligence.
However, such is the complexity of the condition and the myriad ways in which a person can be affected, that claims for compensation are extremely complicated and require the attention of experts in their field, both legal and medical.
Speak to a legal specialist
If you suspect the you have been the victim of negligent medical care of cauda equina syndrome, contact us here at Glynns Solicitors. A dedicated medical negligence legal practice, we offer a wealth of experience in high-value CES claims within our team of specialist solicitors.
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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