Failing to Suspect Early Cauda Equina Syndrome
If a patient appears to be at risk of cauda equina syndrome, although not yet exhibiting clinical symptoms, it is necessary to warn them of the red flag symptoms. A failure to do so may represent poor-quality medical care and may justify a claim for compensation.
Developing cauda equina syndrome
Most patients who are experiencing lower back and leg pain are not developing cauda equina syndrome. However, some will be and, if left undiagnosed and untreated, it is likely that their symptoms will worsen over time.
Cauda equina syndrome is caused by compression of the cauda equina nerves at the base of the spine. This may be due to a number of causes, such as a herniated disc or a tumour. As the compression of the nerves increases over time, so too will the loss of nerve function.
The cauda equina nerves are vital in the experience of sensation and function in the lower body and losing the function of those nerves can leave the patient doubly incontinent and unable to mobilise independently.
If this appalling condition is caught in time and decompression of the nerves undertaken, it can prevent further loss of function. The patient may even experience some recovery.
Medical management of cauda equina syndrome symptoms
Any missed opportunity to diagnose the condition or to ensure that the patient is fully aware of the potential for their condition to deteriorate is a chance for the patient to suffer in the long-term.
Consequently, a patient who may be exhibiting early symptoms should be advised of the red flag symptoms which should prompt them to attend hospital immediately. Those symptoms could include the following:
- Bilateral symptoms of pain and altered sensation in the legs
- Altered or loss of sensation in the saddle area between the legs
- Altered or loss of bladder sensation
- Difficulty emptying the bladder or poor urine flow
- Loss of sensation around the anus and buttocks
If a medical professional fails to warn a patient of the red flag symptoms of cauda equina syndrome, that patient may not attend hospital promptly when the symptoms develop and the opportunity to prevent further function loss may be missed.
If the patient suffers a poor long-term outcome as a consequence, it may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation for the failure to give the patient the correct advice.
Speak to a solicitor
If you or a loved one are struggling with the appalling impact of cauda equina syndrome due to poor medical care, contact Glynns Solicitors 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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