Claiming Compensation for CES Diagnosis Delays
A diagnosis delay in the medical management of cauda equina syndrome will mean a delay in crucial surgery. If the patient is left with life-changing disability due to the delay, it may be possible to make a claim for compensation.
Diagnosis delays
Delays in diagnosis of cauda equina syndrome can occur for a number of reasons
- A failure to recognise symptoms, leading to a misdiagnosis
- A failure to warn of red flag symptoms where a patient is exhibiting possible early symptoms of cauda equina syndrome, leading to a delay in accessing Accident and Emergency
- A failure to arrange an emergency MRI scan when it was necessary
- A delay in arranging decompression surgery once a diagnosis had been made
Delays and medical negligence
The key problem that might lead to a claim for compensation is that, during the period of a delay in diagnosis or surgery, the patient's condition may worsen. Where cauda equina syndrome is concerned, such an event can be life-changing.
A patient who could have expected to recover function if their cauda equina compression was diagnosed and treated promptly may be faced with a lifetime of disability if their diagnosis is delayed.
If the compression of the nerves deteriorates to the point where bladder sensation is lost, the patient's prognosis is less positive.
If this deterioration happens during a delay caused by medical practitioners, they may be regarded as responsible for the patient's subsequent disability and financial losses.
Financial losses may be experienced through a reduced capacity to work or inability to access a former type of employment. It may also be experienced through the costs associated with the need for personal care or support in achieving many household tasks.
Claiming compensation
If a patient suffers a worse medical outcome than could reasonably be expected due to poor-quality care, they are entitled to compensation.
This should address financial issues, such as loss of income, in order to restore the victim to the financial position they would have experienced had the negligence not occurred.
Speak to a legal specialist
If you or a loved one are struggling with the appalling impact of complete cauda equina syndrome due to negligent medical care, contact Glynns Solicitors. We are a dedicated medical negligence legal practice with a team of lawyers experienced in cauda equina claims.
Please call us on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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