Ruptured Disc Diagnosis Delay and Compensation for Cauda Equina Syndrome
The possible devastating consequences of a delay in diagnosing a ruptured disc may justify a claim for compensation.
Ruptured disc diagnosis
A ruptured or herniated disc in the lumbar region of the back has the potential to cause permanent disability if medical professionals do not diagnose this condition at an early stage.
A ruptured disc, where the displaced tissue pushes on a nerve, can cause pain and sciatica or, in extremely unfortunate circumstances, where the cauda equina nerves are affected, cauda equina syndrome.
This appalling and potentially life changing condition causes a cocktail of disabling symptoms which, without prompt diagnosis, may become permanent.
Long term symptoms of cauda equina syndrome
Cauda equina syndrome is associated with a range of debilitating symptoms which can affect almost every aspect of an individual's life including the following:
- Loss of lower body mobility
- Loss of sexual function
- Incontinence of wind and faeces
- Bladder dysfunction
Diagnosis of a ruptured disc and cauda equina syndrome
The diagnosis of cauda equina syndrome requires medical professionals both to recognise the possible significance of the patient's symptoms and to understand the possible urgency of the situation. This should then trigger an appropriately timed referral for an MRI scan to confirm the underlying cause of the patient's symptoms.
In some circumstances, it may be appropriate to make an emergency referral.
If this crucial aspect of the CES care pathway is delayed, the patient may suffer a deterioration of their condition in the intervening time before their essential MRI scan is carried out.
If medical professionals are found to have been responsible for an unnecessary delay and, therefore, considered to be responsible for the deterioration in the patient's condition and long-term outcome, it may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation for the consequences which the patient would not have suffered had they received more timely medical intervention.
Compensation for negligent medical care
The impact of double incontinence and loss of mobility can affect an individual's capacity to work, as well as their ability to travel, support their family, engage in hobbies and carry out everyday household, gardening and personal hygiene activities. The psychological impact can also be disabling.
Where appropriate, a successful compensation claim would address the financial impact of such consequences.
For example, this may include the patient's loss of earnings, both past and future, as well as the costs of care, equipment and adaptations necessary to the patient's home.
Speak to a legal specialist
Cauda equina syndrome compensation claims are extremely complex and require the skills of a specialist lawyer.
Glynns Solicitors is a dedicated medical negligence legal practice with extensive expertise in these complicated claims. Contact us today to talk to a solicitor, free of charge, about the possibility of making a claim for negligent medical care of the diagnosis of cauda equina syndrome.
Please call us on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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