Negligent Delay in Cauda Equina Syndrome Diagnosis
A delay in diagnosing cauda equina syndrome can be life-changing. If this shocking spinal condition is treated promptly, the patient may make a good recovery. If surgery is delayed, the patient may suffer a life-time of bowel incontinence and mobility problems.
If a delay in diagnosis and surgery is due to failings on the part of medical professionals, it may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation. This can help the patient to deal with the appalling impact of this condition on their life and compensate for the loss of income if the patient is no longer able to work.
A delay in diagnosis may be considered to have been negligent in the following circumstances;
- If the medical professional failed to recognise the early symptoms of cauda equina syndrome and consequently failed to make a referral for an MRI scan
- If they made a standard referral for an MRI scan when it would normally have been considered necessary to make an emergency referral
- If they failed to make a thorough assessment of the patient for signs of cauda equina nerve dysfunction
- If they failed to warn the patient of the red flag symptoms of cauda equina syndrome when the patient was already suffering lower back and leg pain which might be an early symptom of this condition
All of the above scenarios can mean that the patient does not receive a confirmed diagnosis of their condition until their chances of recovery have been reduced by the passage of time.
If a patient undergoes decompression surgery before the complete loss of bladder sensation, it would appear that they have a far better chance of recovery of function.
If the patient suffers a delay in diagnosis and surgery due to medical failings such as listed above, they may, therefore, suffer a poor long-term outcome if they lose bladder sensation in the meantime.
In such circumstances, the medical professionals responsible for the delay may be considered to have been negligent and a claim for compensation may be a helpful way forward.
Speak to a solicitor
If you or a loved one are suffering from the dreadful permanent symptoms of complete cauda equine syndrome, contact Glynns to talk to a specialist medical negligence solicitor.
It may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation.
Please call us on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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