Compensation for Accident and Emergency Cauda Equina Negligence
Cauda equina syndrome can be a medical emergency. If a person attends Accident and Emergency with the red flag symptoms of this appalling condition, they may require emergency surgery. A failure to provide appropriate care may justify a claim for compensation.
Cauda equina emergency
If an individual is suffering compression of their cauda equina nerves, they are likely to experience continuing loss of nerve function until all sensation and control in the bowel, bladder and lower body has gone. If this shocking condition is diagnosed before this occurs, surgery may prevent further loss of function and may even provide some degree of recovery of function.
Consequently, prompt and accurate diagnosis is crucial to a good long-term patient outcome. Key to a successful diagnosis at the optimum moment is a recognition of the possible symptoms, a timely MRI scan and, where necessary, the organisation of emergency surgery. A failure at any of these crucial stages can leave the patient with permanent double incontinence and loss of mobility.
Responding to cauda equina syndrome
A person with the early symptoms of cauda equina syndrome may well attend Accident and Emergency either on the instructions of their GP or because they are concerned about the severity of their symptoms. If the medical professionals at Accident and Emergency fail to recognise that tier symptoms may indicate CEs or fail to check for additional neurological, red flags, they might be regarded as having been negligent. If the patient subsequently suffers a permanent and debilitating symptom s as a result, a claim for compensation may be a helpful way forward.
The red flag symptoms which might justify an emergency MRI scan would include the following, in addition to lower back and leg pain:
- Symptoms, perhaps pain, tingling or numbness, in both legs rather than just one
- Reduced sensation in the saddle area and around the anus and buttocks
- Altered sexual function and sensation
- Reduced sensation of needing to urinate
- Altered urinary experience such as a poor flow
Permanent cauda equina symptoms can leave a person unable to work, unable to walk and unable to control their bowel. The financial implications are significant and, where medical negligence has played a role, a successful compensation claim can help to address the financial impact.
Speak to a specialist
Here at Glynns Solicitors, we can offer a wealth of expertise in cauda equina syndrome compensation claims. Specialists in medical negligence, we have supported clients with cauda equina syndrome for many years.
If you or a loved one are struggling with this appalling condition due to poor-quality medical care, contact us to talk to one of our team.
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
