GP Negligence in Cauda Equina Syndrome Diagnosis
Cauda equina syndrome is a fairly rare spinal condition which may be difficult to diagnose in its early stages. It is, however, crucial that GPs are aware of the possibility of this life-changing condition and how to respond to its early symptoms.
A failure by a GP to understand or consider that cauda equina syndrome may be the underlying cause of a patient's symptoms may cause a delay in surgery, leaving the patient disabled for life. In such circumstances, it may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation for the impact of this appalling condition.
Diagnosis
When faced with a patient who is experiencing lower back and leg pain, it is important that a medical practitioner makes an assessment for other possible symptoms which might justify an emergency response.
Those red flag symptoms would include the following:
- If pain and tingling or numbness are progressing to the second leg
- If the patient is experiencing altered sensation in the saddle area and altered sexual sensation
- If the patient is losing awareness of needing to urinate or having to strain to initiation or complete urination
If symptoms suggestinve of nerve compression are present, it may be necessary for the medical professional to refer the patient for an immediate MRi scan to assess the conditionof their spine.
A failure to do so may be regarded as negligent and delay vital surgery which could help to preserve the patient's lower body function.
A delay in surgery may leave the patient with double incontinence and lower body paralysis.
Red flags symptoms
If possible cauda equina syndrome are not present, it is nonetheless important that a GP warns their patient to go to hospital immediately should those symptoms develop.
A failure to inform a patient of these symptoms may mean that they delay going to Accident and Emergency and their condition deteriorates. A delay in surgery makes it less likely that lower body function will be saved.
A failure to warn of red flag symptoms may be regarded as substandard care.
Seek legal advice
If you or a oved one are suffering the appalling symptoms of permanent cauda equina syndrome due to poor-quality medical care, it may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation.
Contact us here at Glynns Solicitors to talk to a specialist medical negligence lawyer with expertise in cauda equina negligence claims.
Please call us on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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