Compensating Delayed Cauda Equina Surgery
If a patient is diagnosed with incomplete cauda equina syndrome, it is likely that they will need to undergo surgery as a matter of emergency. If surgery is delayed, their long-term symptoms may justify a claim for compensation.
Identifying the need for surgery
A diagnosis of incomplete cauda equina syndrome (or CESI) is achieved through a clinical assessment of signs and symptoms followed by an MRI scan to confirm if the nerves are being compressed.
If the patient has not yet lost all cauda equina nerve function, emergency decompression surgery may prevent further loss and they may even experience some recovery of function.
At this point, surgery is generally regarded as being necessary within a matter of hours rather than days.
If surgery is delayed beyond this time, the patient's nerve compression may increase, resulting in a greater loss of lower body function. They may suffer permanent double incontinence and loss of mobility as a result.
It is the responsibility of the relevant medical professionals to ensure that surgery is carried out within the most appropriate timeframe which should provide the patient with the best and safest long-term outcome.
A failure to do this may justify a claim for compensation if the patient suffers a worse outcome as a result.
Symptoms of incomplete cauda equina syndrome
Symptoms which might indicate that a patient has incomplete cauda equina syndrome could include the following:
- Pain, tingling or weakness in one or both legs
- Altered sensation in the saddle region between the legs and around the buttocks
- Altered sexual sensation and function
- Altered sensation when urinating
Cauda equina syndrome compensation claims
The disability associated with cauda equina syndrome can leave the patient permanently disabled.
The consequences of such a degree of disability can be both shocking and life-changing, requiring a change in living accommodation, reducing the individual's capacity to work and possibly requiring personal care to assist with everyday chores.
A successful compensation claim can address those issues of pain, suffering and financial losses.
However, compensation claims for cauda equina syndrome negligence are extremely complex and require the skills of a legal specialist.
Legal advice
Glynns Solicitors is a specialist medical negligence legal practice with extensive experience of cauda equina syndrome compensation claims.
If you or a loved one are struggling with the appalling impact of cauda equina syndrome due to poor-quality medical care, contact us to talk to a specialist lawyer about the suitability of making a claim for compensation.
If you or a loved one are struggling with the appalling impact of this condition due to medical negligence, contact us to speak with a specialist medical negligence solicitor about your situation.
Please call us on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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