Delays in the Medical Management of Cauda Equina Syndrome
A delay in the treatment of cauda equina compression can leave the patient permanently disabled and may justify a claim for compensation.
Why does a delay matter?
The significance of a delay in the diagnosis and treatment of a medical condition varies depending on the nature of the condition. In the case of cauda equina compression, a delay can be utterly life-changing. Generally a progressive condition caused by increasing compression of the cauda equina nerves, the longer diagnosis is delayed, the worse the patient's symptoms may become. Eventually, the patient may suffer permanent loss of mobility or paralysis, double incontinence and loss of sexual function.
What causes a delay?
Once a patient has attended their GP or Accident and Emergency facility, a number of different occurrences can cause a delay in diagnosis and surgery including the following:
- A failure by a medical professional to recognise the possible symptoms of cauda equina compression such as bilateral leg symptoms, altered urinary function or altered saddle sensation
- A failure to carry out a thorough assessment
- A misdiagnosis of symptoms
- A failure to make a timely referral for an MRI scan
- A delay in carrying out an MRI scan
- A failure to provide red flag advice
A delay of only a few hours can make a difference to the patient's outcome.
When can I claim compensation?
A patient is entitled to make a claim for compensation if medical negligence has caused them to suffer a worse outcome than should have been the case with an appropriate level of care.
If the patient is suffering significant financial losses as a result, such as a loss of earnings or the costs of care or treatment, these costs would be included in a successful claim.
It is important to act promptly. Claims must be issued with a court within three years from the date of the alleged negligence and a lengthy investigation in to the quality of the patient's care and its impact has to be carried out before that deadline.
Free advice from a legal specialist
Glynns Solicitors is a dedicated medical negligence legal practice with a team of experienced lawyers and extensive expertise in high-value complex cauda equina syndrome claims.
Contact us today to talk to a solicitor, free of charge, about the possibility of making a claim for the shocking financial impact of cauda equina syndrome negligence.
We can offer No Win No Fee funding for medical negligence claims which we will discuss with you during your free initial telephone discussion.
Please call us on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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