Scan Negligence in Cauda Equina Syndrome Diagnosis
Medical negligence contributing to a delay in diagnosis for cauda equina syndrome can take many forms. Negligence in relation to the all-important MRI scan can alter the course of the patient's long-term experience of this crippling condition.
The role of the MRI scan in cauda equina syndrome diagnosis
The purpose of an MRI scan in relation to cauda equina syndrome is to identify whether or not the patient's lower back and lower body symptoms are being caused by compression of the cauda equina nerves in the lumbar region of the back. If this turns out to be the case, surgery to decompress the nerves can be a medical emergency.
Medical negligence and the MRI scan
A delay in undertaking the scan can allow time for the patient's condition and loss of lower body function to worsen.
Unfortunately, this potentially life-changing scenario can occur for a number of reasons including the following:
- A medical professional fails to recognise that the patient's symptoms necessitate an MRI scan
- A medical professional recognises the need for a scan but not the urgency of the situation, there by assigning a lower priority for the scan
- A hospital delays carrying out a scan
- A hospital without suitable facilities (perhaps not 24 hours, 7 days a week) delays the transfer of a patient to suitable facilities
- The reporting of the scan is delayed
- The reporting of the scan is incorrect
Claiming compensation
A delay in carrying out an MRI scan to check for cauda equina compression will inevitably delay the initiation of surgery to decompress the spine. It is possible, therefore, that, during the delay, the patient's condition worsens and, as a result, they suffer permanent lower body symptoms such as loss of mobility and double incontinence, which would not have been the case with an earlier diagnosis.
Where this is the case, the patient is legally entitled to claim compensation for the impact of the symptoms which have been caused by the negligence.
The impact of loss of mobility and double incontinence can be devastating and can significantly affect the individual's capacity both to work and to remain independent.
They may suffer a significant loss of earnings and may require treatment, equipment and personal care to manage their symptoms which would be associated with considerable cost.
Free legal advice
If you think that you or a loved one have been the victim of negligence in relation to cauda equina syndrome, the first step is to talk to a specialist lawyer.
Glynns Solicitors is a dedicated medical negligence legal practice with long-standing experience of complex, high-value cauda equina claims.
Contact us today to talk to a solicitor, free of charge, about the possibility of making a claim.
We can offer No Win No Fee funding for medical negligence claims which we will discuss with you during your free initial telephone discussion.
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
