Is Cauda Equina Compression a Medical Emergency?
Compression of the cauda equina nerves at the base of the spine can leave an individual with permanent disability. Diagnosis and surgery are often a medical emergency and a failure by medical professionals to take the appropriate action may be regarded as negligent.
A deteriorating condition
As a progressive condition, cauda equina syndrome can worsen over time. As the compression of the cauda equina nerves increases, loss of lower body function increases likewise until the patient suffers permanent disability. This can take the form of double incontinence, loss of mobility and sexual dysfunction.
Consequently, it is essential that this life-changing condition is diagnosed and treated at the earliest possible moment.
It is often considered that decompression surgery for cauda equina syndrome needs to take place before bladder sensation is entirely lost. The patient has the best chance of a good outcome from surgery if it takes place before this moment.
If the patient is only exhibiting the earliest signs and symptoms of cauda equina compression such as sensory changes in the saddle area, leg symptoms and urinary symptoms, emergency surgery may mean that they avoid a lifetime of disability. Decompression of the nerves should prevent further function losses.
Negligent medical care
Delays in diagnosis and treatment may allow deterioration in the patient's condition and be regarded as negligent.
If a patient appears to be exhibiting possible symptoms of cauda equina compression, a thorough assessment is necessary for any additional signs and a referral for an emergency MRI scan may be necessary. A confirmation of cauda equina compression causing lower body function losses should trigger emergency surgery to decompress the nerves.
A failure to assess a patient thoroughly, a failure to provide red flag warnings where necessary and a failure to arrange an MRI scan in a timely manner may all be regarded as negligent.
A delay in carrying out or reporting the results of an MRI scan may also be regarded as negligent, as would a delay in arranging surgery.
Should you claim compensation?
If delays in medical care mean that a patient suffers a worse outcome than would otherwise have been the case, the patient is entitled by law to make a claim for compensation.
Such a claim would take account of the financial effects of the negligence such as a loss of income where a patient is no longer able to work or is restricted in the nature or duration of employment due to the symptoms caused by the negligence.
Speak to a specialist solicitor
Glynns Solicitors is a dedicated medical negligence legal practice with a team of experienced lawyers. Contact us today to talk to a solicitor free of charge if you or a loved one are facing a future of disability due to negligent medical care.
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