Symptom Diagnosis Negligence and Compensation for Cauda Equina Syndrome
Recognition of the possible early symptoms of cauda equina compression is crucial to the best patient outcome. If negligent care has left you or a loved one facing permanent disability, contact Glynns Solicitors to discuss the possibility of making a claim for compensation.
Cauda equina syndrome symptoms
If a patient is exhibiting symptoms which may be indicative of compression of their cauda equina nerves at the base of the spine, they may require emergency medical attention.
A failure to recognise these symptoms and a failure to provide timely and adequate care may not only leave the patient with appalling symptoms but may justify a claim for compensation.
Symptoms which might suggest that a patient could be developing cauda equina syndrome could include the following:
- Lower back pain
- Pain and altered sensation such as numbness in the legs, especially where both legs are affected
- Altered sensation in the saddle area between the legs and around the anus
- Altered urinary and bladder function such as having to strain to empty the bladder
Diagnosis negligence
A delay in diagnosis will lead to a delay in decompression surgery and that can, in some circumstances, can be utterly life-changing for the patient. A delay can allow time for the patient's nerve compression to increase, thereby putting them at risk of experiencing worsening lower body symptoms.
Failings in medical care which may lead to a delay in diagnosis and treatment could include the following:
- A failure to carry out a thorough assessment of the patient
- A failure to recognise possible cauda equina syndrome symptoms
- A failure to make a timely referral for an MRI scan
- A failure to provide red flag warnings to the patient
- A delay in carrying out an MRI scan
- A delay in initiating decompression surgery
Claiming compensation for negligent medical care
If a patient's nerve compression has worsened whilst waiting for a confirmed diagnosis of cauda equina syndrome, the relevant medical professionals may be regarded as having provided substandard care.
If the patient suffers worse long-term symptoms and a reduced quality of life as a result of the substandard care, it may be possible to claim compensation for the impact of the worse symptoms. Given the potential for cauda equina syndrome to cause double incontinence and loss of mobility, the consequences are frequently not inconsiderable. For example, an individual may struggle to work due to their symptoms and suffer a significant loss of income, which would be taken into account in a successful claim.
Speak to a specialist solicitor
Glynns Solicitors is a dedicated medical negligence legal practice with a team of experienced lawyers. Contact us today to speak with 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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