Compensation for Delayed Treatment of Compressed Cauda Equina Nerves
Compression of the cauda equina nerves can be a medical emergency. If a delay in surgery has left you with permanent disabling symptoms, it might be appropriate to make a claim for compensation.
The cauda equina nerves
The ability of the cauda equina nerves at the base of the spine to be able to act effectively and entirely is crucial to the successful functioning of an individual's lower body.
The cauda equina nerves are key to the awareness of sensation and the initiation of movement in the pelvic region and the lower limbs. If the efficiency of these nerves becomes compromised due to the nerve being compressed by a tumour or slipped disc, the individual affected may soon start to experience loss of feeling and control in key parts of the body.
A patient with cauda equina syndrome can suffer the following debilitating symptoms permanently if their condition is not diagnosed and treated promptly:
- Bowel incontinence
- Loss of bladder sensation and bladder incontinence
- Loss of sexual sensation and function
- Loss of mobility
Responding to cauda equina symptoms
An individual who has been diagnosed with cauda equina syndrome may need emergency surgery to decompress the nerves. In this context, the term 'emergency' may indicate treatment within a matter of hours. This can be essential to try to ensure that the patient's nerve compression is resolved before further damage is done to the nerve, causing the patient to suffer further, and possibly irreversible, loss of function.
If treatment is delayed, or if diagnosis is delayed, causing a poor long-term outcome for the patient, the relevant medical professionals may be regarded as having acted negligently. The patient may be entitled to make a claim for compensation for their pain suffering and any financial losses caused by the delay in their treatment.
Patients who are demonstrating the red flag symptoms of cauda equina syndrome, such as altered urinary experience, altered sensation in the saddle area and pain in the lower back and legs, may need immediate attention.
Medical negligence
A failure on the part of medical professionals to recognise, respond to or warn of the symptoms of cauda equina syndrome, leading to a delay in surgical treatment, may be regarded as substandard care.
Speak to a solicitor
If you or a loved one are struggling with the appalling long-term impact of cauda equina syndrome due to a delay in diagnosis or treatment, contact Glynns Solicitors. We are specialists in medical negligence compensation, with extensive knowledge of cauda equina syndrome claims. Call us today and one of our team of specialist solicitors will be very happy to talk to you.
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
