Compensation for Bilateral Sciatica Misdiagnosis
A failure by medical professionals to recognise the possible implications of bilateral sciatica may justify a claim for compensation.
Recognising the possible symptoms of cauda equina syndrome
If symptoms of sciatica spread from one leg to the second leg, it is possible that, instead of sciatica, the patient is actually developing cauda equina syndrome. The long-term consequences of this appalling condition can be catastrophic and life-changing. An accurate diagnosis or a referral for an urgent scan is essential to avoid the patient suffering permanent disability.
A patient who is suffering with lower back pain and symptoms such as pain and tingling in one leg may be experiencing sciatica. When those symptoms are also experienced in the second leg, it may be a sign that the patient's cauda equina nerves in the lumbar region of the back are being compressed. This is a medical emergency. Without prompt diagnosis and surgical decompression, the nerves may lose their function. As a result the patient may face a lifetime of double incontinence and loss of both mobility and sexual function.
Red flag symptoms
Bilateral sciatica is a red flag symptom of cauda equina syndrome and should prompt a referral for an MRI scan which will identify the underlying cause of the patient's symptoms. Without such a referral and diagnosis, surgical decompression will not be initiated.
Other symptoms which could suggest that the patient is developing cauda equina syndrome include the following:
- Altered sensation in the perineal area and around the anus
- Altered urinary flow or having to strain when urinating
- Altered bladder sensation
- Altered bowel function
Cauda equina syndrome is a progressive condition where loss of nerve function will increase over time and the patient will experience increasing loss of lower body function. If possible symptoms are misunderstood or misdiagnosed by medical professionals, this can leave the patient with complete cauda equina syndrome.
Claiming compensation
If a failure by medical professionals to recognise the possible red flag symptoms of cauda equina syndrome leave a patient with a poor long-term outcome, it may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation.
If the patient has been left facing financial losses such as a reduced income, due to the impact of the negligence, those losses would be taken into account in the assessment of the claim.
Legal advice
If you or a family member believe that you have been the victim of medical negligence relating to the diagnosis and treatment of cauda equina syndrome, contact Glynns Solicitors. A dedicated medical negligence legal firm, we have extensive expertise and experience in cauda equina claims and will be very happy to discuss your situation free of charge.
Please call us on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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