Understanding Medical Negligence in Cauda Equina Syndrome
Medical negligence in relation to cauda equina syndrome can be complex to understand. If you believe you have a claim, speak to a specialist medical negligence solicitor.
Developing cauda equina syndrome
The essential issue in cauda equina syndrome medical negligence is whether medical professionals have, through negligent care, allowed a patient's condition to deteriorate prior to surgery, meaning that their long-term outcome is worse than would otherwise have been the case.
The reason why this is such an important issue is because a patient who is left with complete cauda equina syndrome (CESR) may suffer double incontinence and loss of mobility for the rest of their life. Alternatively, a patient whose symptoms are recognised at an earlier stage and who undergoes decompression surgery before complete loss of bladder sensation may make a recovery which saves their lower body function.
The implications of these two scenarios for a patient's quality of life are clear. The impact that a poor outcome can have on an individual's physical, psychological and financial health is significant. Where medical professionals are responsible, the patient is entitled to compensation for financial losses caused by the negligence.
Medical negligence and cauda equina compression
If a medical professional is faced with a patient who is exhibiting symptoms which might indicate cauda equina compression, and who still retains bladder sensation, prompt diagnosis and treatment are vital before their condition deteriorates. It is incumbent on medical professionals to try to ensure that diagnosis and treatment are achieved at the earliest possible moment in order to avoid the patient suffering permanent disability.
If medical professionals are seen to have brought about a delay, perhaps through a failure to examine, a failure to refer or a delay in an MRI scan or surgery, they may be held responsible for any deterioration in the patient's condition and long-term impact caused by the delays. This would include loss of earnings if the patient is no longer able to work.
Symptoms, in addition to lower back and leg pain, which might justify a referral for an immediate MRI scan would include the following:
- Bilateral leg symptoms
- Urinary difficulties
- Altered saddle sensation
- Altered sensation around the buttocks and anus
A failure to recognise or assess these symptoms might lead to a misdiagnosis, a delay in surgery and claim for compensation if the patient suffers as a result.
Legal advice
If you or a loved one are facing the impact of cauda equina syndrome due to medical negligence, contact Glynns today to talk to specialist medical negligence solicitor.
Please call us on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
Make An Enquiry
Why Choose Us
- Specialist medical negligence solicitors
- Free initial enquiries
- No win, no fee available
Reviews
Our Expertise
Helping Clients Across England & Wales
