Prolapsed Disc Negligence and Compensation for Cauda Equina Syndrome
Failure to diagnose and treat a prolapsed disc in the lumbar region may result in the development of cauda equina syndrome, an appalling and disabling condition. It may also justify a claim for compensation.
A prolapsed disc and cauda equina syndrome
The cauda equina nerves, located in the lumbar region of the spine, are responsible for the communication of movement and sensation in the lower body. With loss of their function, an individual can suffer a myriad of distressing and debilitating symptoms including the following:
- Loss of mobility or paralysis
- Loss of bowel control
- Loss of bladder control
- Sexual dysfunction
A prolapsed or herniated disc is the most common cause of compression of the cauda equina nerves and the resulting symptoms.
Diagnosis negligence
Cauda equina syndrome is such a debilitating condition that diagnosis needs to occur at the earliest possible moment. This will give the patient the best possible chance of early surgery which should minimise the impact of the loss of nerve function.
Negligence in relation to the diagnosis and treatment of a prolapsed disc and this distressing condition could include the following:
- A failure to carry out a thorough assessment of the patient which would have identified additional indicators of cauda equina nerve compression
- A failure to recognise the possible implications of the patient's symptoms of lower back pain, and altered sensation in the legs, the saddle area and in bladder function
- A failure to make a timely referral for an MRI scan, the purpose of which is to confirm the underlying cause of the patient's symptoms and which is crucial to a diagnosis of cauda equina compression
- A failure to provide adequate or any red flag warnings of the symptoms which should prompt the patient to attend hospital as a matter of emergency
- A failure to carry out decompression surgery in a timely manner which can sometimes be a matter of emergency
Making a compensation claim
The consequences of cauda equina syndrome can devastate the life of the individual affected and their family. A once fit and healthy person can find themselves suffering from severe disability within a very short space of time. This appalling condition can deteriorate from its early symptoms to complete cauda equina over a matter of days, condemning the patient to permanent disability.
If this shocking outcome is the result of negligent medical care of a prolapsed disc, it should be possible to make a claim for compensation.
Speak to a legal expert
Glynns Solicitors is a dedicated medical negligence legal practice with extensive expertise in high-value cauda equina syndrome claims. 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.
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