Incontinence and Mobility Loss: Cauda Equina Negligence
Cauda equina syndrome can cause double incontinence and loss of mobility. If this is due to substandard medical care, it may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation.
Why does this occur?
This shocking outcome of severe disability can occur when compression of the cauda equina nerves at the base of the spine become compressed, causing dysfunction of much of the lower body in terms of both sensation and function.
If cauda equina compression is identified promptly, emergency surgery can reduce the compression on the nerves and give the patient a good chance of recovery of function and prevent further function losses.
If treatment in the form of decompression surgery does not take place, however, loss of mobility and incontinence may become permanent.
Is it always a sign of negligence?
Cauda equina syndrome is often a progressive condition meaning that, if a patient visits their medical professional with the early signs and symptoms, it may be possible to arrange surgery in time to save the individual's function.
If medical professionals fail to recognise the symptoms, fail to make a thorough assessment or fail to make a timely referral for an MRI scan, they may be regarded as having provided negligent care. If the patient suffers a further deterioration in their condition prior to surgery, due to the medical delays, and experiences long-term disability as a result, they may be entitled to make a claim for compensation.
When Can I Claim Compensation?
If the medical failings have affected your long-term outcome, you may be able to make a claim. If you have suffered financial losses, such as loss of employment or increased costs of care, because of delays in the diagnosis and treatment of cauda equina syndrome, a compensation claim would take account of these losses.
Compensations claims for medical negligence have to be commenced within three years of the date of the alleged negligence. For example, if a medical professional failed to refer a patient with symptoms of CES for a timely MRI scan, leading to a poor outcome, in May 2020, it would be necessary to initiate a compensation claim by May 2023.
Legal advice
If you or a loved have been the victim of substandard medical care of cauda equina syndrome, contact Glynns Solicitors, experts in medical negligence law. Our team of experienced lawyers can offer considerable expertise in cauda equina claims and will be very happy to talk to you about your situation and the suitability of making a claim.
Please call us on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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