Suing for Delayed Medical Reponses to CESI
It is likely that a patient suffering with incomplete cauda equina syndrome (CESI) will need an emergency medical response. Where this does not occur, leaving the patient to suffer a lifetime of disability, it may be helpful to make a claim for compensation.
Incomplete cauda equina syndrome
Cauda equina syndrome, loss of lower body function due to compression of the cauda equina nerves, is considered to be 'incomplete' when the patient is experiencing symptoms but still retains some bladder sensation and control.
Decompression surgery for this most distressing of medical conditions is regarded as an emergency at this point due to the need to operate before the patient's symptoms and compression deteriorate further. Once the nerves have lost their ability to transmit messages of bladder sensation and function to and from the brain, the chances of recovery are reduced and the patient may suffer severe debilitating symptoms for the rest of their life.
A timely diagnosis
A prompt diagnosis of cauda equina syndrome requires that medical professionals recognise the early possible symptoms of lower back and leg pain as well as the red flag symptoms of saddle sensory losses and altered bladder function. A thorough assessment of the patient for the red flag symptoms is needed plus a willingness to make a referral for an emergency MRI scan. Whilst the patient may prove not to be developing this pernicious condition, a willingness to make such a referral may save a patient from permanent dysfunction.
Once a diagnosis has been confirmed, it is usually recommended that surgery take place as soon as possible and within hours rather than days. A delay of just a couple of days can mean the difference between function and disability.
If medical professionals cause a delay in the progress of diagnosis or treatment when a patient is suffering with incomplete cauda equina syndrome, they may be regarded as having provided only substandard care.
The permanent impact of cauda equina syndrome can include double incontinence as well as loss of mobility and, where medical professionals are found to have been responsible for such a poor outcome, it may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation.
Speak to a specialist solicitor
Glynns Solicitors is a specialist medical negligence legal practice with considerable expertise in cauda equina syndrome claims.
Call us today if you or a loved one are struggling with the permanent impact of this shocking condition due to poor-quality medical care.
Please call us on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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