Prolapsed Disc Misdiagnosis and Compensation for Cauda Equina Syndrome
A prolapsed or herniated disc is a major cause of cauda equina syndrome. A misdiagnosis may lead to a catastrophic outcome and justify a claim for compensation.
Prolapsed disc impact
A prolapsed or herniated disc in the spine in the lumbar region of the back can cause increasing pressure on the cauda equina nerves located there. As the nerves become increasingly compressed or squashed, their ability to provide effective function is lost.
As the cauda equina nerves are responsible for sensation and movement in the lower body, urgent and correct diagnosis is vital. A misdiagnosis can leave the patient struggling with a horrific combination of lower body symptoms:
- Loss of mobility
- Loss of bowel sensation and control, leading to incontinence of both wind and faeces
- Loss of bladder sensation and control
- Loss of sexual function
Diagnosis and misdiagnosis
A timely diagnosis of compressed cauda equina nerves and cauda equina syndrome relies on the patient undergoing an MRI scan. This is to confirm whether or not the nerves are compressed and causing the patient's symptoms.
However, in order for a patient to access an MRI scan, medical professionals at either their GP surgery or in Accident and Emergency need to be able to recognise the symptoms and understand the possible implications for the patient.
A failure to examine the patient or a failing in knowledge may lead a practitioner to the wrong conclusion and an incorrect diagnosis.
A thorough assessment of the patient is essential in order to identify key symptoms such as the following:
- Lower back pain
- Radiating pain and symptoms such as numbness or pins and needles in both legs
- Altered sensation in the saddle area between the legs and around the buttocks
- Altered urinary experience such as a poor flow
- Altered awareness of needing to urinate
- Altered awareness of needing to defecate
Making a claim
The catastrophic function losses caused by cauda equina syndrome can be life-changing, affecting the patient's ability to undertake many of the normal everyday activities of their previous lifestyle. This can include losing the ability to walk, drive, work, carry out household and personal hygiene tasks. Access to a toilet may become a focus of the day.
If such distressing problems are found to be the result of negligent care, it may be possible to make a claim for compensation for the resulting financial losses.
Speak to a legal specialist
Contact Glynns Solicitors, specialists in medical negligence law, to talk 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.
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