Diagnosis Mistakes and Compensation for Cauda Equina Syndrome
Compression of the cauda equina nerves in the lumbar region of the spine needs to be diagnosed as a matter of medical emergency. Unidentified and untreated compression will eventually mean that the nerves cannot do their job, thereby depriving the patient of significant lower body function.
Failures in the diagnosis of cauda equina compression
If medical professionals fail to consider the possibility that their patient is developing cauda equina syndrome, causing a delay in treatment and a life-changing outcome for the patient, they may be regarded as negligent, justifying a claim for compensation.
Diagnosis is time-sensitive and requires a knowledgeable and competent approach. If a medical professional is faced with a patient experiencing lower back and leg pain, failures in the process of diagnosis may include the following:
- A failure to make a thorough assessment of the patient's symptoms and signs to ensure that no indicators of cauda equina compression are missed
- A failure to recognise the possible significance of the patient's symptoms such as altered sensation or weakness in both legs, altered sensation in the saddle area, altered urinary experience such as having to strain in order to empty the bladder
- A failure to provide a patient with the red flag warnings of cauda equina compression when that would generally have been regarded as necessary
- A failure to make an appropriate referral for an MRI scan to confirm the underlying cause of the patient's symptoms
Claiming compensation for cauda equina syndrome
An individual suffering with cauda equina syndrome may be struggling with double incontinence, loss of mobility and loss of sexual function.
Their entire quality of life may have been undermined. They may no longer be able to work and support their family, they may become reliant on personal care and mobility assistance. Their personal relationships may suffer, their hobbies and former activities becoming distant memories.
If this distressing and debilitating circumstance is, in some measure, the result of a negligent medical diagnosis, the consequences and their financial costs can be included in a claim.
However, compensation claims for cauda equina syndrome are highly complex and it is essential to get the best experienced legal support if you wish to pursue a claim.
Speak to a specialist
Glynns Solicitors is a dedicated medical negligence legal practice with a wealth of experience in cauda equina syndrome claims, as attested by the numerous testimonials on our website.
Contact us today, to talk to a solicitor, free of charge, if you are considering making a claim.
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
