Claiming Compensation for Care Costs of Cauda Equina Syndrome
Cauda equina syndrome can leave a patient with double incontinence and mobility problems. Many patients find that they are limited in their capacity to work or unable to work at all. Some find that they can no longer manage two-storey accommodation and have to move home. Others find that they need support to undertake daily tasks, caring for themselves and carrying out the necessary daily chores of shopping and cooking.
Incomplete cauda equina syndrome
If the patient is suffering these appalling and debilitating symptoms due to medical delays in diagnosis and treatment, it might be possible to make a claim for compensation to assist with the many costs which can be incurred.
It is essential that cauda equina syndrome is diagnosed and treated at its 'incomplete' stage where the patient still retains some sensation and control over the pelvic region, in particular the bladder. At this point, the condition is often regarded as a medical emergency. The patient may require an emergency MRI scan to confirm their diagnosis followed by surgery to decompress the nerves at the base of the spine within a matter of hours.
In order to achieve this, medical professionals, whether the GP, Accident and Emergency practitioners or a physiotherapist, need to be able to recognise the significance of the early symptoms.
Assessing the patient
If a patient visits their medical professional with lower back and leg pain, it is vital that they are thoroughly assessed for any additional symptoms which could indicate that they are, in fact, developing cauda equina syndrome. This might include loss of sensation in the saddle area, alteration in urination sensation and control and pains in both legs. If so, the patient might require a referral for an emergency MRI scan to check the condition of their spine.
A failure to examine the patient effectively may mean that these symptoms are missed and the patient may suffer a permanent deterioration of their condition before surgery is carried out.
A failure to warn the patient of the need to attend hospital immediately should these symptoms start to develop might also be regarded as negligent and justify a claim for compensation.
Speak to a solicitor
If you or a loved one are suffering the costly long-term impact of complete cauda equina syndrome because of a delay in recognising your symptoms, it might be appropriate to make a claim for compensation.
Contact Glynns Solicitros today to talk to a specialist medical negligence lawyer with expertise in cauda equina syndrome compensation claims.
Please call us on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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