Can I Claim Compensation for Negligence Leading to Cauda Equina Syndrome?
If medical negligence, such as delays in diagnosis, have allowed a deterioration in a patient's condition so that their long-term outcome is poorer than would otherwise have been the case, it may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation.
Deterioration in cauda equina syndrome
Cauda equina syndrome is a progressive condition where a patient's degree of nerve compression and associated loss of function can worsen over time. Eventually the patient may lose complete control of the bowel and bladder as well as losing their mobility.
If this appalling and life-changing condition is diagnosed and treated with surgical decompression at an early stage of development, it is possible to prevent further deterioration and may enable some recovery.
Equally, a delay in diagnosis and treatment can allow time for an increase in the degree of dysfunction which may become permanent.
The timing of surgery for cauda equina compression is absolutely crucial to the patient's long-term well-being. If diagnosis is delayed beyond the point where the patient has lost bladder sensation, it would seem that their long-term prognosis is worse. Therefore, an early diagnosis, before the development of this symptom is vital.
Diagnosis negligence
If medical professionals are faced with a patient whose symptoms indicate that they may be developing cauda equina syndrome but have not yet reached the point of painless retention of urine, it is considered essential to refer the patient for an emergency MRI scan. This can confirm the underlying cause of the patient's symptoms and, if necessary, trigger the organisation of emergency surgery.
If the relevant medical practitioner fails to recognise the symptoms or their significance, allowing the patient to return home without an immediate referral to got to hospital, they may be regarded as having provided substandard care.
Should the patient's symptoms then deteriorate and the compression of their nerves worsen so that they suffer a poor long-term outcome, it may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation.
Symptoms which could indicate compression of the cauda equina nerves could include altered levels of sensation between the legs and around the anus, bilateral leg symptoms and altered sensation when urinating.
Claiming compensation
Compensation claims for cauda equina syndrome are complex and require the guidance and support of a specialist in medical negligence claims.
Here at Glynns, we have extensive experience of cauda equina syndrome compensation claims and a history of successful outcomes.
Contact us today if you believe your on-going cauda equina symptoms may be due to poor medical care.
Please call us on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
Make An Enquiry
Why Choose Us
- Specialist medical negligence solicitors
- Free initial enquiries
- No win, no fee available
Reviews
Our Expertise
Helping Clients Across England & Wales
