Negligent MRI Referral for Cauda Equina Syndrome
The timing of a referral for an MRI scan for a patient who may be developing cauda equina syndrome can be utterly life-changing. A medical delay may prompt a claim for compensation.
MRI scans and cauda equina syndrome
The role of an MRI scan is crucial in the diagnosis of cauda equina syndrome. If a patient attends their GP with symptoms which might suggest cauda equina syndrome, they may require emergency surgery within hours. However, this will not happen without the certainty that their symptoms are being caused by compression of the cauda equina nerves at the base of the spine. An MRI scan is the means by which the condition of the spine and any compression of the nerves can be ascertained.
If a patient is to access emergency surgery, it is clear, therefore, that their MRI scan needs to be arranged on an emergency basis also if they are suspected of having this appalling condition.
If a medical professional does not recognise either the significance of their patient's symptoms or the need for an emergency referral, the patient may suffer a very poor long-term outcome indeed.
A standard or urgent referral for an MRI scan may mean a significant delay in the patient receiving a confirmed diagnosis. During this delay, the patient's nerve compression and associated symptoms may worsen. If this is the case, there is a possibility that surgery will not succeed in improving their condition and their disability may become permanent.
If medical delays in organising an MRI scan have led to the patient suffering permanent disability, it might be appropriate to make a claim for compensation.
Referring for an MRI scan
The symptoms which might necessitate an emergency MRI scan would include the following:
- Lower back pain
- Pain, tingling or numbness in one or both legs
- Altered bladder function with difficulty urinating or poor flow
- Altered or loss of sensation in the saddle area and around the buttocks and anus
Legal advice
If you or a loved one are struggling with the permanent effects of cauda equina syndrome due to medical delays, it might be appropriate to make a claim for compensation.
Glynns Solicitors is a specialist medical negligence legal practice with extensive experience of cauda equina syndrome cases. Contact us today to talk to an experienced solicitor about your situation.
Please call us on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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