Substandard Cauda Equina Compression Diagnosis and How to Claim
A prompt and accurate diagnosis of cauda equina compression is essential if the patient is to avoid long-term disability. Medical failings in the process of diagnosis and treatment can prove devastating, leaving the patient struggling with incontinence and mobility losses.
Substandard medical care of cauda equina compression
If a patient attends their GP or Accident and Emergency facility with lower back pain, they may be developing compression of the cauda equina nerves in the lumbar region of the spine. This potentially life-changing condition can be a medical emergency and it is essential that it is considered as an explanation of the patient's symptoms.
A prompt and accurate diagnosis is crucial and the following failures in medical care which may delay a diagnosis may be regarded as negligent:
- A failure to carry out a thorough assessment of the patient for any and all possible signs and symptoms which might suggest that their lower back pain is due to compression of the cauda equina nerves
- A failure to make an appropriate and timely referral for an MRI scan which should identify whether or not the patient is suffering from nerve compression
- Making a misdiagnosis of the patient's symptoms which might cause the patient to delay attending hospital even if their symptoms deteriorate
- A failure to provide the patient with red flag advice of which symptoms should prompt them to attend hospital immediately, without which the patient may not realise the possible urgency of their situation
Making a claim for compensation
If you are fortunate, a delay in diagnosis may not be associated with a deterioration in your condition. But, on the other hand, if your condition does deteriorate during the period of a delay, leaving you with disabling symptoms which would not have been the case had your diagnosis been more prompt, you may be entitled to claim compensation.
If this is the case, you need to contact a medical negligence specialist solicitor at the earliest moment. They will analyse your medical records in order to ascertain whether or not you have been the victim of negligent care. Due to the complexity of cauda equina syndrome, this can be a time-consuming process, requiring the input of the best medical experts. It is a process which needs to be carried out before your claim can be issued, so don't delay before seeking legal advice.
Speak to a legal specialist
Glynns Solicitors is a medical negligence legal practice with a specific focus on high-value cauda equina syndrome cases. 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.
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