Suing for Permanent Disability due to Cauda Equina Syndrome
Loss of mobility, loss of sexual function and loss of bowel and bladder control are all long-term symptoms of cauda equina syndrome which may justify a compensation claim if medical professionals failed to take the correct action.
Claiming compensation for complete cauda equina syndrome
For a patient left with complete cauda equina syndrome, the permanent physical and psychological effects can be utterly devastating. A once-healthy and fit individual can find that they are restricted to a wheelchair or reliant on a stick. They may face a future of bowel and bladder incontinence and the associated discomfort and possible embarrassment.
If the shocking symptoms could have been avoided with more efficient and competent medical care, it may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation.
A successful claim can provide compensation for the individual's pain and suffering as well as past and future financial losses. For someone whose career has been destroyed by their physical disability, such recompense can make a significant difference. For an individual who can no longer cope in a two-storey building and requires new accommodation, a successful claim can make life easier and open up the way to a more positive future.
Cauda equina decompression surgery
Cauda equina syndrome requires emergency decompression surgery before the patient's nerve damage becomes irreversible and their loss of lower body function becomes permanent.
A patient who is developing this appalling condition and who is starting to exhibit the red flag symptoms needs a referral for an emergency MRI scan.
Patients with cauda equina syndrome often start to experience an alteration of sensation in the saddle area and when urinating in addition to back and leg pain. It is essential that these symptoms are investigated as a matter of emergency.
A delay in assessing the cause of these symptoms can mean that the patient deteriorates before a confirmed diagnosis is made. Once the patient's symptoms become advanced and they have lost bladder sensation, surgery may make little difference to their symptoms.
Medical negligence
If a medical professional fails to assess a patient for the red flag symptoms of cauda equina syndrome or fails to make an emergency referral when necessary, they may be regarded as having provided a substandard level of care.
If the patient subsequently suffers a poor long-term outcome with significant disability, it may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation.
Legal advice
Contact Glynns today if you or a loved one are suffering the debilitating impact of cauda equina syndrome due to a delay in your diagnosis or treatment.
Please call us on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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