Misdiagnosis of Cauda Equina Red Flags & Claiming Compensation
The vast majority of compensation claims for cauda equina syndrome relate to the failure by medical professionals to recognise or act on the red flag symptoms.
Failing to spot the symptoms
Early recognition of, or suspicion of, the red flag symptoms of cauda equina syndrome is absolutely key to prompt treatment and the prevention of further nerve and function deterioration.
Red flag symptoms of cauda equina compression which should prompt consideration of the need for an MRI scan could include the following:
- Bilateral sciatica-type symptoms of pain and altered sensation in both legs
- Altered sensation in the saddle area around the perineum and anus
- Altered bladder and urinary function
- Altered bowel sensation and function
A misdiagnosis of the red flag symptoms of cauda equina syndrome can give the patient a false reassurance. It may also mean that their nerve compression worsens before diagnosis is finally achieved and before surgery is commenced.
Surgery for cauda equina compression can often be a matter of emergency due to the progressive nature of the condition. If surgery is delayed, nerve compression can worsen and the associated symptoms can become permanent, leaving the patient with double incontinence and loss of mobility.
Failing to assess for the red flag symptoms
If a patient attends their medical professional with possible early symptoms of cauda equina compression, it is essential that a thorough assessment is carried out to identify any further signs which might prompt an immediate referral for further investigation.
A failure to take a thorough history or a failure to carry out a thorough examination may be regarded as negligent.
Failing to provide red flag safety-netting
If a patient sees their medical professional with lower back and leg pain, but it is not considered that they require an urgent referral for an MRI scan, it is, nonetheless, important that the patient is warned of the red flag symptoms that should prompt them to attend hospital immediately.
If the patient is not made aware of the vital red flag symptoms, they may delay seeing a medical professional even if their symptom shave worsened. This may be more likely where they have been given a misdiagnosis.
Claiming compensation
If your long-term quality of life has been affected by negligent medical care of cauda equina compression, it may be possible to make a claim for compensation. This would provide recompense for the difficulties experienced by the patient in so far as they have been caused by the negligent care.
Legal advice
Contact Glynns Solicitors, specialist in medical negligence compensation, to talk to a solicitor, free of charge, about the possibility 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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