Slipped Disc Misdiagnosis and Compensation for Cauda Equina Syndrome
A slipped disc can put pressure on the cauda equina nerves, causing increasing function losses. Diagnosis is urgent and medical delays may justify a claim for compensation if the patient suffers a poor outcome.
Cauda equina compression
If medical professionals fail to consider that a patient is suffering with a slipped disc in the lower back, the consequences can be life-changing. If the cauda equina nerves in the lumbar region are becoming compressed by a slipped or ruptured disc, diagnosis is required urgently. As the compression of these crucial nerves worsens, the patient may suffer increasing levels of lower body dysfunction, ultimately resulting in the following appalling symptoms;
- Loss of mobility
- Bladder incontinence
- Bowel incontinence
- Sexual dysfunction
Symptoms which might indicate a slipped disc and may be early symptoms of cauda equina compression could include the following:
- Lower back pain
- Altered sensation in the legs, especially if both legs are affected
- Altered bladder and urinary experience such as having to strain
- Altered sensation in the saddle area between the legs and around the anus
Negligent medical care and cauda equina syndrome
If medical professionals fail in their care of a patient who is developing cauda equina compression, they may be regarded as negligent and it might be possible to make a claim for compensation for the consequences of the negligence.
Failings in the diagnosis of a slipped disc causing cauda equina compression could include the following:
- A failure to examine the patient for signs indicative of cauda equina compression
- A misdiagnosis of symptoms
- A delay in making a referral for an MRI scan
- A delay in carrying out an MRI scan
- A delay in commencing surgery to decompress the nerve
The right to compensation
If a patient suffers a poor outcome following negligent medical care, they are legally entitled to claim compensation for the consequences of that negligence.
In the case of cauda equina syndrome, those consequences can be disabling and life-changing. A once-healthy individual may find that they are unable to work, require personal care in everyday life and need significant alterations to be carried out their home in order to be able to function safely in that environment.
Financial losses such as are likely to be caused by the above scenarios could be incorporated in a successful claim.
Speak to a legal specialist.
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, if you think that you may have a claim.
Please call us on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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