Compensation for Delayed Diagnosis of Spinal Compression
A timely diagnosis of compression of the cauda equina nerves at the base of the spine can be crucial to the patient's long-term outcome.
Diagnosing cauda equina syndrome
A diagnosis of cauda equina syndrome requires a competent clinical assessment followed by an MRI scan to assess the condition of the spine.
If the clinical assessment is insufficient or if the relevant medical professional does not recognise the significance of their patient's symptoms, a delay may cause permanent disability.
The role of the MRI scan
A failure to understand the implications of the patient's symptoms may result in a delayed referral for an MRI scan. Unfortunately, if the patient is developing cauda equina syndrome, the MRI scan may be required as a matter of emergency.
The MRI scan is needed in order to ascertain the underlying cause of the patient's symptoms. If the patient is suffering loss of sensation in the saddle area and altered urinary function alongside pain in the lower back and legs, it is possible that their cauda equina nerves are being compressed by a slipped disc.
The cauda equina nerves are responsible for function in the pelvic region and legs, meaning that a loss of function may result in bladder and bowel incontinence as well as loss of mobility.
Why does a delay matter?
In the early stages, the impact of the nerve compression may be moderate and surgery should both halt any further function losses and possibly allow recovery of function.
As time passes, however, the compression of the nerves is likely to increase and the patient's loss of function will become more significant to the point where they may suffer double incontinence and paralysis.
Therefore, if medical professionals are responsible for a delay in diagnosis and surgery, they may be regarded as responsible for any further loss of function experienced by the patient.
Claiming compensation for negligent care
Compensation claims for medical negligence address the issues of pain, suffering and financial losses caused by the negligence.
If you have suffered financial losses, such as reduced income or high costs of care due to your disability, a successful claim should provide recompense for these losses.
Speak to a solicitor
Contact Glynns Solicitors if you or a loved one are facing a future of disability due to poor medical care of cauda equina syndrome.
We are a specialist medical negligence legal practice with many years' experience of cauda equina syndrome claims. One of our team will be very happy to talk to you.
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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