Compensation for Disability due to Missed CES Symptoms
For a medical practitioner to miss the possible symptoms of cauda equina syndrome can prove catastrophic for the patient. Such negligence may justify a claim for compensation for the subsequent pain and financial losses of the patient.
A patient who attends their medical practitioner with lower back and leg pain may have sciatica. However, it is also possible that they are in the early stages of cauda equina syndrome and a thorough assessment for additional symptoms is crucial. A failure to carry out such an assessment may leave the patient with a lifetime of disability.
The symptoms which might suggest that a patient is developing cauda equina syndrome are likely to include the following:
- Bilateral sciatica symptoms rather than symptoms in only one leg
- Altered sensation between the legs such tingling or numbness
- Altered sexual sensation or function
- Alteration in experience of urinating – this might be a poor flow or having to strain to start or complete urination
- Loss of sensation around the anus and buttocks
- Altered bowel sensation or function
- Weakness in ankle reflexes
It is essential that a patient with lower back and leg pain is assessed for the presence of these symptoms. They could suggest that the patient requires an emergency MRI scan followed by emergency surgery. If the cauda equina nerves have become compressed, they may require decompression within a matter of hours to prevent further deterioration, leading to greater and permanent loss of function.
The symptoms mentioned above could become established and the patient may suffer multiple forms of disability for life.
Whilst the patient retains some control of, and sensation in, the bladder, their condition is considered to be incomplete and emergency surgery may prevent further deterioration and restore some function. If medical practitioners fail to identify the patient's symptoms, however, and the patient loses bladder function entirely, there may be no recovery.
Making a compensation claim
If you are struggling with the appalling, long-term impact of cauda equina syndrome due to a delay in recognising your symptoms, it may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation.
Getting the right legal advice is essential. Glynns Solicitors is a specialist medical negligence legal practice and we have extensive experience of supporting clients in making highly-successful cauda equina syndrome claims.
Contact us today to talk to one of our team of specialist solicitors.
Please call us on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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