Claiming Compensation for Bowel Problems after CES Negligence
A failure of appropriate medical care for cauda equina syndrome can leave the patient with permanent bowel dysfunction. It may be possible to make a claim for compensation for the associated losses.
Bowel dysfunction and the diagnosis of CES
The loss of bowel control with complete cauda equina syndrome is one of the many distressing and debilitating aspects of this terrible condition.
If diagnosis and surgery are achieved in a timely fashion, it may be possible to avoid such an appalling outcome. If diagnosis and treatment are delayed, however, the patient may suffer an array of life-changing symptoms, of which bowel dysfunction is only one.
The cauda equina nerves provide sensation and function in much of the lower body and any damage needs to be promptly identified in order to give the patient the best chance of recovery or, at least, to prevent further function loss.
If a patient attends their GP or Accident and Emergency facility with the possible early symptoms of cauda equina syndrome, such as lower back and leg pain alongside altered sensation in the saddle are and altered urinary function, it may be necessary for them to undergo an MRI scan as a matter of emergency. This will confirm, or rule out, a diagnosis and, where necessary, ensure that the patient undergoes emergency surgery. Where the patient still retains some lower body function, early surgery is essential before further nerve compression occurs.
The impact of bowel dysfunction
Loss of bowel function means losing awareness of needing to defecate and losing the means to control that action. It may result in extreme urgency when needing to go to the toilet. It may also mean complete loss of function and a life of bowel incontinence.
Bowel problems of such severity are likely to have a significant impact on a person's life and the financial losses associated with that can be considerable. For example, the individual may be restricted in the type and hours of work they can undertake, suffering significant income losses as a result. They may need some form of personal care or adjustments made to their home to ease the accomplishment of everyday tasks.
Where a poor patient outcome has been the result of medical delays in diagnosis or treatment, a successful compensation claim can provide recompense for financial losses such as these.
Speak to a specialist solicitor
Glynns Solicitors is a specialist medical negligence legal practice. If you or a loved one are struggling with the impact of cauda equina syndrome due to poor-quality medical care, contact us to speak with an experienced solicitor with cauda equina expertise.
Please call us on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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