Negligent Hospital Care of Cauda Equina Syndrome
If a patient attends hospital with the possible symptoms of cauda equina syndrome, it is essential that they receive the appropriate care for this disabling condition. If they are sent home with a misdiagnosis, they are at risk of a deterioration and permanent lower body disability.
Responding to the symptoms of cauda equina compression
The early possible symptoms of cauda equina syndrome include the following:
- Lower back and leg pain and altered sensation, especially where this affects both legs
- Altered sensation in the saddle area between the legs and around the buttocks
- Altered urinary function such as a poor flow or having to strain to empty the bladder
- Reduced awareness of needing to urinate
- Altered bowel sensation or function
If a patient is experiencing some of these symptoms, it is crucial that a diagnosis of cauda equina compression is ruled out. This may require an MRI scan to confirm the cause of the symptoms.
If a diagnosis of cauda equina syndrome is confirmed by an MRI scan, surgery may be a matter of emergency, required within hours rather than days or weeks. Cauda equina syndrome is a progressive condition and a delay in surgery may allow a deterioration in the patient's condition which surgery may not resolve.
A patient may be left with permanent loss of mobility and double incontinence.
Negligent hospital care
If medical professionals in hospital fail to recognise or diagnose the symptoms of cauda equina compression, the patient will inevitably suffer a delay in the necessary investigation and treatment.
If medical professionals do not carry out an appropriate examination, fail to arrange an MRI scan or delay the initiation of decompression surgery, they may be regarded as having acted negligently.
If the patient suffers a worse long-term outcome because of the resulting delay, it should be possible to make a claim for compensation for those consequences which would not have developed but for the negligence.
Speak to a legal specialist
Compensation claims for cauda equina syndrome are extremely complex and require the skills of a specialist solicitor. They will be able to access the patient's medical records and assess the quality of their medical care.
If you or a loved one are struggling with the impact of negligent hospital care of cauda equina syndrome, contact Glynns Solicitors, specialists in medical negligence compensation. One of our team of experienced solicitors will be happy to talk to you, free of charge, about the possibility of making a claim.
Contact us today to speak with a solicitor, free of charge, about the possibility of making a claim for compensation.
Please call us on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
Make An Enquiry
Why Choose Us
- Specialist medical negligence solicitors
- Free initial enquiries
- No win, no fee available
Reviews
Our Expertise
Helping Clients Across England & Wales
