Updated NICE Red Flags for Cauda Equina Syndrome
Updated red flags of cauda equina syndrome clarify the symptoms of this appalling condition which should prompt further investigation.
NICE Red Flags for CES
The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence has recently updated its red flag symptoms for cauda equina syndrome. They are now stated as follows:
- Bilateral sciatica
- Severe or progressive bilateral neurological deficit of the legs, such as major motor weakness with knee extension, ankle eversion, or foot dorsiflexion
- Difficulty initiating micturition or impaired sensation of urinary flow, if untreated this may lead to irreversible urinary retention with overflow urinary incontinence
- Loss of sensation of rectal fullness, if untreated this may lead to irreversible faecal incontinence
- Perianal, perineal, or genital sensory loss (saddle anaesthesia or paraesthesia)
- Laxity of the anal sphincter (consider an assessment of anal tone but note that this does not need to be performed in primary care)
- Erectile dysfunction
Diagnosis of cauda equina syndrome
As the above list indicates, the effects of cauda equina syndrome can be catastrophic. A delay in diagnosis and treatment can leave a patient with permanent lower body dysfunction.
Suspecting cauda equina syndrome (compression of the cauda equina nerves) and referring a patient for an MRI scan are essential if further deterioration and function loss is to be avoided.
An MRI scan is a crucial part of the diagnosis process for this shocking condition and a failure by medical professionals to recognise the signs and symptoms of cauda equina syndrome may mean that a patient does not receive a timely referral.
As cauda equina syndrome is generally a progressive condition, any delay can lead to further deterioration and a worse outcome.
A failure to suspect the symptoms, a failure to make an appropriate referral or a failure to warn a patient of the red flag symptoms may all be regarded as negligent medical care.
Claiming compensation
If a patient suffers significant losses due to negligent medical care, the law entitles them to make a claim for compensation.
The potential impact of cauda equina syndrome on an individual's life can be wide-ranging and dramatic, affecting their ability to work, earn an income and function independently within their own home.
The financial costs and losses associated with such a life-changing income would be taken into account in a successful compensation claim.
Speak to a legal specialist
If you or a loved one are struggling with the terrible impact of cauda equina syndrome due to delays in medical care, contact Glynns Solicitors, the medical negligence specialists, to talk to an experienced solicitor with expertise in this shocking condition.
Speak to a specialist solicitor
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