Compensation for Delayed Lumbar Decompression for CES
If you have been diagnosed with cauda equina syndrome, you will need decompression surgery in the lumbar region of the spine. If your surgery has been delayed, leaving your symptoms to deteriorate, it might be appropriate to make a claim for compensation.
Cauda equina syndrome
Although it affects the function of the lower body, cauda equina syndrome is rooted in the lumbar region of the lower back. If the cauda equina nerves at this point become squashed or compressed, the patient can suffer appalling and permanent symptoms. This could include both bladder and bowel incontinence, sexual dysfunction and loss of mobility.
The impact on an individual's quality of life can be absolutely devastating.
The cauda equina nerves may become compressed for a variety of reasons, although most commonly it is due to a herniated or prolapsed disc. If the disc presses on the nerve, the patient's condition may become a medical emergency.
As the nerves are increasingly compressed, the patient will lose more and more lower body function. What may start out as pins and needles in the legs and saddle area may lead to complete loss of feeling or paraesthesia.
Diagnosing cauda equina syndrome
Consequently, it is crucial that the patient is diagnosed and that surgery is undertaken before the functional loss is irretrievable.
Is it essential that GPs and Accident and Emergency staff are able to recognise the significance of the patient's symptoms and understand the need for immediate action.
Red flag symptoms which should prompt urgent action include bilateral sciatica, altered sensation in the saddle area and urinary or bowel difficulties.
Medical negligence
If a patient with incomplete cauda equina syndrome who still retains some function and sensation is allowed to deteriorate prior to surgery due to the incompetence of medical practitioners, it may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation. It may be possible to make a claim for the additional functional losses which are considered to be due to the delay in medical action.
If medical delays have left you with incontinence or loss of mobility, it is highly likely that your ability to work has been compromised and your financial situation may be suffering.
You may even be requiring alternative or adapted accommodation and care as a result of the delay in your lumbar decompression surgery. A successful compensation claim can help you to cover such costs.
Legal advice
If you or a loved one are suffering from the shocking, on-going problems associated with complete cauda equina syndrome due to a delay in medical care, contact Glynns today to talk to a specialist medical negligence solicitor.
Please call us on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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