Permanent Disability and Cauda Equina Syndrome Negligence
Negligent medical care of cauda equina compression can leave a patient with permanent and devastating disability. It may also justify a claim for compensation.
Cauda equina compression
The cauda equina nerves at the base of the spine are at the root of sensation and function in the lower body. Bladder function, bowel function, mobility and sexual sensation and function are all dependent on an individual's cauda equina nerve function.
If these crucial nerves become compressed, perhaps by a herniated disc in the spine, they will increasingly lose the ability to function. The result of this is that associated sensation and function in the lower body is gradually lost until the patient reaches complete cauda equina syndrome and suffers permanent disability.
Diagnosing cauda equina compression
It is, therefore, essential that compression of the cauda equina nerves is diagnosed at the earliest possible moment and that decompression surgery is carried out as a matter of emergency to provide the patient with the best chance of a functioning future.
A delay in diagnosis and surgery can allow further compression and loss of function to occur, leaving the patient to suffer the following physical problems:
- Bowel incontinence
- Bladder incontinence
- Sexual dysfunction
- Loss of mobility
As well as the physical devastation of cauda equina syndrome, the psychological, practical and financial impact can be overwhelming. A once-healthy and fit individual may be rendered unable to mobilise, unable to work and dependent on personal care.
Their home may feel like an alien environment as they struggle to navigate their way around.
Medical negligence
A failure to recognise the possible early symptoms of this appalling condition or a failure to carry out a thorough assessment for the red flag symptoms may be regarded as negligent.
A delay in referring a patient for an MRI scan or a delay in arranging such a scan or surgery where necessary may also be regarded as negligent.
If the patient suffers a poor long-term outcome due to unnecessary medical delays such as these, they would be entitled to make a claim for compensation for their pain, suffering and financial losses.
Speak to a legal specialist
Glynns Solicitors is a dedicated medical negligence legal practice with extensive expertise in cauda equina syndrome claims.
If you or a loved one are struggling with the effects of negligent medical care of this life-changing condition, contact us to talk to a specialist 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.
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