Cauda Equina Surgery Delays and Claiming Compensation
If you are developing compression of the cauda equina nerves at the base of the spine, you may require surgery as a matter of emergency. If medical professionals fail to recognise this fact, it may be appropriate to claim compensation for the consequences.
Deteriorating cauda equina nerve function
When the cauda equina nerves in the spine start to become compressed, an individual will start to lose some aspects of function in the lower body. As the compression increases, so too will the loss of function. Therefore, if a patient is diagnosed with incomplete cauda equina syndrome, meaning that some degree of function still remains, emergency surgery may prevent further deterioration.
In reality, this can mean that a person who is suffering with pain and altered urinary function does not, for example, deteriorate to the point of loss of bladder control and sensation leading to incontinence.
The same type of deterioration may occur with sexual function, mobility and bowel control.
The timing of decompression surgery is absolutely crucial.
Any delay in commencing decompression may allow the patient to suffer significant, life-changing and possibly irreversible further function losses.
Medical negligence and cauda equina surgery
If medical professionals cause a delay, in either diagnosis, the undertaking of an MRI scan or the initiation of surgery, they may be regarded as having been negligent.
Surgery to decompress the cauda equina nerves is often regarded as being necessary within a matter of hours rather than days. A negligent delay may see the development of new symptoms which may change the course of the patient's life.
If the consequences of the delay lead to a worse long-term outcome for the patient, they may be entitled to make a claim for compensation for the consequences of that negligence.
In the case of cauda equina syndrome, the consequences can be pretty catastrophic. A once fit and healthy individual may struggle to work and may become reliant on care.
Claiming compensation
If you or a loved one are struggling with the impact of cauda equina syndrome and suspect that you may have been the victim of negligent medical care, your first step is to speak with a specialist solicitor. These complex cases require experience and expertise in order to ensure that a meticulous analysis of the patient's medical care is carried out.
Furthermore, the impact of cauda equina syndrome on an individual's life can be wide-ranging and an experienced legal expert will ensure that all aspects are considered and that the best settlement is achieved.
Contact us here at Glynns Solicitors, specialists in medical negligence law, to speak with a solicitor, about the possibility of making a claim for compensation.
Contact us today to speak with a solicitor, free of charge, about the possibility of making a claim.
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