Left with Cauda Equina Syndrome due to Poor Medical Advice
If a patient attends their GP or Accident and Emergency facility with symptoms which might lead to cauda equina syndrome, it is essential that they receive the correct response and advice. False reassurance may prove catastrophic.
Failing to refer for investigation
If a patient sees their medical professional with symptoms indicative of incomplete cauda equina syndrome, they may require a referral for an emergency MRI scan. Symptoms which could prompt such a response could include pain in the lower back, sciatica-like symptoms in both legs, altered sensation in the saddle area and urinary symptoms. A failure to recognise the significance of these symptoms may lead to a lifetime of disability for the patient.
Failing to warn of red flag symptoms
A patient whose symptoms are not indicative of cauda equina syndrome but who may go on to develop those symptoms, such as a patient with lower back and leg pain, needs to be advised as to the further symptoms which should prompt immediate attendance at Accident and Emergency. These would include the saddle numbness and altered urinary experience mentioned above. If the patient is not made aware of the significance of these symptoms, they may not act when they develop. This may mean that their symptoms are established and permanent by the time they eventually achieve diagnosis and treatment.
Failing to advise immediate treatment
A diagnosis of incomplete cauda equina syndrome should prompt immediate decompression surgery to prevent further deterioration of the cauda equina nerve function. A delay in surgery at this point can allow the symptoms to deteriorate prior to surgery, leaving the patient with complete cauda equina syndrome and permanent disability. If the patient is not advised of the urgency of surgery at this point, they may not realise that a delay could prove disastrous.
Medical negligence
If medical professionals fail to diagnose and act on the possible symptoms of cauda equina syndrome, they may be regarded as having provided substandard care.
If the patient suffers a deterioration of symptoms and a poor long-term outcome as a result of the medical delays, it may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation.
Speak to a solicitor
If you or a loved one are suffering the shocking and permanent effects of complete cauda equina syndrome due to poor medical care and advice, you may wish to consider making a claim for compensation.
Contact Glynns Solicitors to talk to a specialist in cauda equina syndrome claims.
Please call us on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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