Emergency MRI Scans and Cauda Equina Syndrome Negligence
A patient who visits their GP or Accident and Emergency facility with possible symptoms of cauda equina syndrome may need a referral for an emergency MRI scan. A failure to arrange this may result in permanent disability for the patient. It may also justify a claim for compensation.
In the course of diagnosing cauda equina syndrome, a complex spinal condition, a failure of medical care can occur at a number of points:
- A failure to recognise the symptoms as indicative of cauda equina syndrome
- A failure to examine the patient for additional signs or symptoms of cauda equina syndrome
- A failure to refer the patient for an emergency MRI scan when this would generally be regarded as necessary
Why is an MRI scan necessary?
An MRI scan is needed in order to identify the underlying cause of the patient's symptoms. If a patient is suffering lower back pain and symptoms affecting their bladder, perineum and legs, it may be that their cauda equina nerves at the base of the spine are being compressed, perhaps by a herniated disc. If so, the patient will need to undergo decompression surgery, possibly as an emergency. Without an MRI scan, this scenario will not be evident.
Why is it an emergency?
If it appears likely that the patient is developing cauda equina syndrome, their condition needs to be diagnosed and treated at the earliest possible moment.
Cauda equina syndrome is a progressive condition and the longer diagnosis and surgery are delayed, the worse the patient's symptoms are likely to become.
A patient who has attended their GP with lower back and leg pain may not have cauda equina syndrome but an examination and, possibly, an MRI scan could be necessary to ascertain this for certain.
If red flag symptoms are not present, it may not be necessary to have an emergency MRI scan but if symptoms might indicate CES, a failure to arrange an emergency MRI scan may be considered negligent.
Legal advice
If you or a loved one are struggling with the appalling symptoms of cauda equina syndrome, such as incontinence, due to delayed medical care, it may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation.
Contact Glynns Solicitors, specialists in medical negligence claims, to talk to an experienced solicitor about the suitability of making a compensation claim.
If you or a loved one are struggling with the appalling impact of this condition due to medical negligence, contact us to speak with a specialist medical negligence solicitor about your situation.
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
