Spinal Diagnosis Negligence and Compensation for Cauda Equina Syndrome
Delays in diagnosing compression within the spine can alter the course of a person's life and may justify a claim for compensation.
Diagnosis and cauda equina syndrome
Cauda equina syndrome and its devastating associated symptoms originate in the spine. In order to confirm a diagnosis of this life-changing condition, the patient needs to be referred for an MRI scan, sometimes as a matter of emergency. If medical professionals fail in this regard, it may be possible to make a claim for compensation.
Symptoms which might indicate that a patient is developing cauda equina syndrome and which might warrant a referral for an MRI scan could include the following:
- Pain and altered sensation in both legs as well as the lower back
- Altered sensation in the saddle area
- Altered urinary flow or having to strain to empty the bladder
- Altered awareness of needing to urinate
- Altered sexual sensation
In some circumstances, the MRI scan is regarded an emergency and a failure to understand that and to make the appropriate arrangements may be regarded as negligent.
The role of the MRI scan
An MRI scan should identify whether or not the patient is experiencing compression of the cauda equina nerves which is causing their lower body symptoms.
If this is the case, the patient may need emergency surgery to decompress the nerves and prevent further loss of lower body function.
Without this confirmed diagnosis, the necessary surgery will not take place and the patient's nerve compression and function loss may continue to worsen.
Failing to recognise the patient's possible CES symptoms, failing to examine the patient and failing to make an appropriate referral can all contribute to a delay in diagnosis and may be regarded as negligent care.
Claiming compensation
An individual who suffers long-term and disabling symptoms due to negligent medical care is legally entitled to claim compensation. Where cauda equina syndrome is concerned, the financial losses can be significant.
An individual may struggle to work and face a dramatic loss of income and pension. They may require personal care and support around the house. They may require additional medical treatment and equipment or adaptations to their home.
Where medical negligence has played a part, a successful claim would incorporate losses such as these.
Legal advice
Glynns Solicitors is a specialist medical negligence legal practice with extensive experience and success in high value cauda equina syndrome cases.
Contact us today to talk to a 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.
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