Referral Negligence for Cauda Equina Compression and Claiming Compensation
A delay in making a referral for possible cauda equina compression can lead to a catastrophic outcome for the patient.
MRI referral delay
An MRI scan is crucial to the diagnosis of cauda equina syndrome. A patient may be experiencing symptoms which are indicative of cauda equina syndrome but, without an MRI scan, it will not be clear that those symptoms are being caused by compression of the cauda equina nerves at the base of the spine.
Without an MRI scan and a confirmed diagnosis, a patient will not undergo the necessary surgery which is often a matter of emergency.
Without an MRI scan, the patient may suffer a lifetime of severe disability.
If a medical professional fails to arrange for an MRI scan within an appropriate timeframe, or at all, for a patient with possible CES symptoms, they may be regarded as having been negligent in the quality of care.
Specialist referral
If a medical professional is uncertain as to the possible cause of a patient’s symptoms, they should seek further advice or a second opinion. A failure to do so, allowing the patient’s condition to deteriorate in the meantime, may be regarded as negligent.
A delay in an accurate diagnosis for a patient with cauda equina compression can mean the difference between altered sensation in parts of the lower body, and double incontinence and paralysis.
If their spinal compression increases whilst they are waiting for the appropriate medical care, their loss of function in the lower body may well worsen.
If this is the result of negligent medical care, it may be possible to make a claim for compensation for the long-term consequences of those medical failings.
Claiming compensation
A patient who suffers from the impact of negligent medical care is legally entitled to make a claim for compensation which would address any financial losses experienced by the patient as a result of the negligence.
If you suspect that you or a loved one have been the victim of negligent cauda equina care, the first step is to speak with a specialist solicitor who will be able to investigate the quality of your care and advise you as to whether or not it would be appropriate to make a claim.
Remember that compensation claims for medical negligence have to be issued with a court within three years of the date of the alleged negligence. A specialist solicitor will need plenty of time before that date in which to assess the quality of your medical care.
Don’t delay. Call us today to discuss your situation with a specialist solicitor.
Contact us to speak with a specialist 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.
Make An Enquiry
Why Choose Us
- Specialist medical negligence solicitors
- Free initial enquiries
- No win, no fee available
Reviews
Our Expertise
Helping Clients Across England & Wales
