What is Cauda Equina Syndrome? Claiming Compensation
Cauda equina syndrome is a debilitating condition caused by nerve compression at the base of the spine. If medical negligence has contributed to a poor long-term outcome, it may be possible to make a claim for compensation.
Cauda equina syndrome
Cauda equina syndrome is a variable and progressive condition where an individual experiences varying degrees of function loss in the lower body because their cauda equina nerves are being squashed.
The cauda equina nerves are located at the base of the spine in what is called the lumbar region of the spine. Occasionally, these nerves can become squashed or compressed when a tumour or herniated disc nearby starts to press against them.
As the pressure on the nerves increases, they start to lose their function. As the cauda equina nerves are responsible for the communication of sensation and movement between the brain and the lower body, this can result in appalling lower body symptoms:
- Loss of bowel function and sensation
- Loss of bladder function and sensation
- Loss of sexual function and sensation
- Loss of lower limb mobility
Not all people will experience this total loss of lower body function. Cauda equina syndrome is usually progressive so, if the condition can be identified at an early stage, decompression surgery can be carried out to prevent further loss of function.
However, if diagnosis and surgery are delayed, the loss of function may have increased to the point where the symptoms become permanent.
Medical management of cauda equina syndrome
Early diagnosis is key to a good outcome. The sooner decompression surgery is carried out, the better the patient's long-term well-being and quality of life is likely to be.
If medical professionals fail to recognise the possible early symptoms and fail to make a referral for an MRI scan, it may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation for the impact of any subsequent function losses experienced by the patient.
Symptoms which might indicate cauda equina syndrome include sciatica-like symptoms in both legs, altered sensation between the legs and around the anus, altered bladder sensation and urinary function and altered bowel sensation.
Claiming compensation
If you are suffering on-going complications due to poor management of your cauda equina syndrome, it may be possible to make a claim for compensation.
If you have suffered financial losses due to your symptoms, this would be taken into account in a successful claim.
Legal advice
Contact Glynns Solicitors If you believe you have been the victim of negligent medical care. A dedicated medical negligence legal practice, we have the experience and expertise to support you in making a successful claim.
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
