Delayed Diagnosis of Cauda Equina Nerve Compression
A delay in recognising that a patient may be suffering from nerve compression may lead to a lifetime of disability.
Compression of the cauda equina nerves
Nerves throughout the body serve as the brain's messengers and when they don't function well, neither do we. Responses to sensation and instructions of movement need to pass to and from the brain in order to keep us safe and enable us to move and perform our normal physical functions.
The cauda equina nerves at the base of the spine are key to lower body function. If they become compressed, or squashed, they will become unable to carry out their role and the patient is likely to experience a wide range of debilitating and distressing physical problems.
Effects of cauda equina nerve compression
A patient with complete cauda equina syndrome may face a lifetime of disability including the following life-restricting difficulties:
- Bladder incontinence, meaning the loss of both bladder sensation and control of urination
- Bowel incontinence meaning loss of control of passing wind and faeces
- Loss of sexual sensation and function
- Weakness and numbness in the legs alongside loss of ankle reflexes, leading to loss of mobility and dependence on a stick or wheelchair.
Negligence in diagnosis
Whether the patient is attending their GP or their local Accident and Emergency facility, it is essential that the signs of nerve compression in the lower back are recognised as promptly as possible.
An emergency MRI scan and emergency surgery may be necessary and a delay could alter the course of the patient's health and future life.
Compression of the nerves is caused by a local physical spinal problem such as a herniated disc or a tumour pressing on the nerve. The sooner the symptoms of such compression are spotted, the better the patient's long-term outcome is likely to be.
If a patient is exhibiting symptoms of lower back and leg pain along with disturbances in bladder function or sensory losses in the saddle area, a delay in referring that patient for an MRI scan may be regarded as negligent.
Claiming compensation
If the patient subsequently suffers a poor long-term outcome due to the delay in medical management of their condition, it may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation.
Contact Glynns Solicitors if you or a loved one are suffering from the appalling impact of cauda equina syndrome due to a failure to recognise the early symptoms. We are specialists in clinical negligence compensation and one of our team of experienced solicitors will be very happy to talk to you.
Please call us on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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