Diagnosis Negligence in Cauda Equina Syndrome
Medical negligence in the course of diagnosing cauda equina syndrome can leave the patient disabled for life. It may also justify a claim for compensation.
Prompt diagnosis of cauda equina syndrome is essential in order to reduce the likely impact on the patient. Timing is crucial and any delays by medical practitioners in achieving a diagnosis and undertaking surgery may justify a claim for compensation.
- If a patient is experiencing lower back and leg pain, it is vital that medical practitioners assess them for any possible additional signs or symptoms of cauda equina syndrome. If someone is developing cauda equina syndrome, they may need an emergency MRI scan and a failure to examine the patient, to identify this situation and implement this procedure promptly may be regarded as negligent.
- If a patient is not exhibiting red flag symptoms but is, nonetheless, at risk of developing cauda equina syndrome, a medical professional should advise them of the red flag symptoms of cauda equina compression such as bilateral leg symptoms, altered saddle sensation and altered bladder sensation or function. A failure to do so may leave the patient with a false reassurance and unaware of the need to go to hospital if these symptoms start to develop.
- If a patient is referred for an emergency MRI scan, it is the responsibility of a hospital either to provide that service or to transfer the patient in a timely manner to a facility which can provide that service. A failure to do so or a delay in doing so may be regarded as negligent.
When can you claim compensation?
Cauda equina syndrome is generally a progressive condition where increasing compression of the cauda equina nerves causes increasing dysfunction in the lower body. If medical professionals miss an opportunity to diagnose and treat this appalling condition at an early stage, thereby allowing the patient to deteriorate whilst under their care, they may be regarded has having provided substandard care. It may also be appropriate to make a claim for compensation.
It is important to remember that claims for compensation have to be initiated within three years of the date of the alleged negligence. For example, if your GP failed to refer you for an MRI scan when you were exhibiting red flag symptoms in April 2019, you should commence your claim before April 2022. It is advisable to speak with a legal specialist as soon as possible.
Legal advice
Glynns Solicitors is a dedicated medical negligence legal practice with extensive expertise in cauda equina claims. Contact us today to talk to a specialist medical negligence solicitor.
Please call us on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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