Compensation for Delayed Cauda Equina MRI
If a GP or Accident and Emergency practitioner fails to refer a patient with CES symptoms for an MRI scan, they may be regarded as having been negligent and it may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation.
Emergency cauda equina surgery
If the cauda equina nerves at the base of the spine are being compressed, it is essential that the patient undergoes an MRI scan to confirm this. A failure to do so may delay emergency surgery, leaving the patient with permanent and disabling symptoms in the lower body.
The cauda equina nerves are responsible for sensation and function in the legs, bowel and bladder, and compression of those nerves will increasingly reduce their ability to work.
The patient may find that they are facing a lifetime of double incontinence and loss of mobility.
Possible CES symptoms
Symptoms which might indicate that the patient could be suffering with compression of the cauda equina nerves could include some or all of the following:
- Lower back and leg pain in one or both legs
- Loss of awareness of needing to urinate
- Difficulty starting to urinate or to empty the bladder
- Altered experience of urination such as a poor flow
- Loss of sensation or tingling in the saddle area between the legs and around the anus and buttocks
- Altered bowel control or sensation
If a patient is exhibiting symptoms, they may need an emergency MRI scan. This means that they should undergo a scan within a matter of hours rather than days or weeks. If the local hospital is unable to provide this service, it should arrange for the patient to be transferred to the nearest facility which can offer an MRI scan as promptly as possible.
A referral for an urgent scan, or no referral at all, will mean that surgery is also delayed. Timing of surgery is crucial in treatment for a patient with incomplete cauda equina syndrome and a delay can represent the difference between possible recovery and permanent disability.
Speak to a solicitor
A delay in making a referral for an MRI scan for a patient with possible cauda equina syndrome may be regarded as negligent.
If the patient consequently suffers on-going disability, it may be appropriate to make a compensation claim for their pain and suffering and financial losses such as loss of income.
Contact Glynns Solicitors if you or a loved one are suffering with the appalling long-term impact of CES due to a delayed MRI scan. We have extensive experience of cauda equina syndrome claims and one of our team will be very happy to talk with you.
Call us today if you or a loved one are struggling with the permanent impact of this shocking condition due to poor-quality medical care.
Please call us on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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