Compensation for Negligent Medical Care of Cauda Equina Syndromee
Medical responses to cauda equina syndrome can be time critical and a failure to act promptly may leave the patient with permanent disability and justify a claim for compensation.
A progressive condition
Cauda equina syndrome is usually a progressive condition where the patient's symptoms deteriorate until their function losses in the lower body become permanent. If the condition can be diagnosed at an early stage, therefore, timely surgery can prevent further dysfunction and may enable some recovery.
Cauda equina syndrome is a fairly rare condition and its earliest symptoms can be those of sciatica but a failure to consider the possibility of this appalling alternative diagnosis can prove catastrophic for the patient.
Complete cauda equina nerve compression can cause incontinence of both bladder and bowel as well as loss of mobility and loss of sexual sensation and function. Where possible, therefore, it is essential that the condition is diagnosed before it becomes complete.
This means that the patient's symptoms are investigated and diagnosed before loss of bladder sensation. What is termed 'painless retention of urine' is often regarded as the point beyond which recovery of function is less likely to occur following surgery.
Early cauda equina syndrome symptoms
Early symptoms which could warrant further investigation include the following:
- Lower back and leg pain, and possible tingling or numbness, especially if the symptoms are spreading to the second leg
- Altered sensation in the saddle area, such as numbness or a pins and needles tingling sensation
- Altered experience when urinating such as having to strain to urinate
- Altered level of awareness of the need to urinate
- Altered sensation such as numbness around the anus and buttocks
A failure to assess a patient with lower back pain for these symptoms might be regarded as substandard care. A failure to refer a patient for an emergency MRI when symptoms are present or a failure to warn the patient of the red flag symptoms may be considered as negligent.
If the patient suffers a poor long-term outcome due to the failings in medical care, it may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation.
Speak to a solicitor
Here at Glynns Solicitors we have supported numerous clients in pursuing highly-successful compensation claims for poor medical care of cauda equina syndrome.
Contact us today if you or a loved one are struggling with the shocking impact of this condition. One of our team of specialist medical negligence solicitors will be very happy to help 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
