Permanent Bowel Dysfunction and Compensation for Cauda Equina Syndrome
Permanent bowel dysfunction is one of the shocking, life-long disabilities which can be caused by cauda equina syndrome. If this appalling outcome is due to substandard medical care, it may be possible to claim compensation for the consequences.
Bowel dysfunction and cauda equina syndrome
Cauda equina syndrome is the result of compression of the cauda equina nerves at the base of the spine. Responsible for sensation and movement in the lower body, the compression of these vital nerves can cause loss of bowel and bladder function.
To minimise the risk of such a life-changing outcome, early diagnosis and treatment is essential.
If an individual attends their GP or Accident and Emergency facility with the possible symptoms and signs of cauda equina compression, they may require an emergency MRI scan and emergency surgery to decompress the nerves.
What may start as lower back pain and altered saddle sensation or poor urinary flow may, if diagnosis and treatment are delayed, result in incontinence of both bladder and bowel as well as loss of mobility and sexual function.
The impact of bowel dysfunction
Bowel incontinence can have a devastating effect on a person's quality of life and general well-being. The associated practical and emotional consequences can have a significant impact on an individual's self esteem and personal relationships, their ability to engage in a wide range of activities and care for their family as well as limiting their ability to work and earn a living.
The financial implications can be considerable both in terms of loss of income but also in additional costs of care where needed and, where mobility is affected, in terms of support equipment and adaptations to one's home.
Claiming compensation
If an individual suffers due to negligent medical care, whether from their GP or a hospital practitioner, they are legally entitled to claim compensation for the consequences of that negligence.
In addition to acknowledging their general pain and suffering, a successful claim would incorporate financial losses such as a loss of income or the costs of care and equipment necessary to support and restore the victim's quality of life.
Speak to a legal expert
Compensation claims for medical negligence require the skills of a specialist in medical negligence law.
Glynns Solicitors is a dedicated medical negligence legal practice with a wealth of expertise in these complex claims.
Contact us today 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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