Lumbar Nerve Compression and Negligent Cauda Equina Medical Care
Negligent medical care of cauda equina nerve compression can leave the patient struggling to mobilise and facing a lifetime of double incontinence.
Nerve compression in the lumbar region
Compression of the nerves in the lumbar region of the back requires prompt and accurate diagnosis in order to avoid a lifetime of disability for the patient.
The cauda equina nerves, located in this lower region of the spine, are crucial in a person's effective functioning. They are responsible for messages of sensation and movement in the bowel, the bladder, the saddle area including sexual function, and the legs. A loss of the function of these nerves due to undiagnosed or late diagnosed compression can mean the loss of this combination of lower body function.
An individual's life can become unrecognisable if they lose their mobility as well as suffering from loss of bowel and bladder function.
Diagnosis and medical negligence
Timely and accurate diagnosis of cauda equina compression requires the recognition of the possible symptoms of this condition, an understanding of the urgency of the patient's situation, a timely referral for an MRI scan and timely initiation of decompression surgery.
A failure at any point in the patient's care pathway, whether in the GP surgery or in Accident and Emergency at hospital, can mean that their compression worsens and their loss of function increases.
Examples of negligent medical care which may cause the patient to suffer both a delay and a poor long-term outcome could include the following:
- A failure to carry out an examination and a thorough assessment
- A failure to recognise the possible symptoms of cauda equina compression such as bilateral leg pain, altered saddle sensation and altered urinary experience
- A failure to make a timely referral for an MRI scan which may be a matter of emergency
- A failure to provide red flag warnings of when to attend hospital
- A delay in the initiation of decompression surgery
Free, specialist legal advice
If you are struggling with the shocking symptoms of cauda equina syndrome and suspect that your medical care may have contributed to this poor outcome, contact us here at Glynns for a free initial consultation.
As a dedicated medical negligence legal practice, we can offer a wealth of expertise and experience in high value cauda equina syndrome claims and can advise you as to the best way forward.
Please call us on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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