Cauda Equina Dysfunction, Disability and Claiming Compensation for Negligence
Loss of function of the cauda equina nerves is an extremely serious issue. Without early recognition that there is a problem and prompt surgery, the patient may be left with permanent loss of mobility and double incontinence.
Cauda equina dysfunction
The cauda equina nerves are crucial for effective lower body function. They recognise sensation in the lower body and initiate movement, thus facilitating effective bladder and bowel function as well as sexual function and mobility.
The cauda equina nerves are crucial for effective lower body function. They recognise sensation in the lower body and initiate movement, thus facilitating effective bladder and bowel function as well as sexual function and mobility.
If the nerves become squashed or compressed, their ability to function will be lost. However, if compression and associated function loss is gradual, early diagnosis and decompression surgery can prevent further loss of function and may enable some recovery.
Delayed diagnosis, on the other hand, can mean that loss of function is complete and permanent, causing a devastating impact on the patient's quality of life.
Medical negligence in cauda equina syndrome
Negligence on the part of medical professionals, which causes an unnecessary delay in diagnosis and surgery, may cause additional function losses and may justify a claim for compensation.
Examples of medical negligence which may delay diagnosis could include the following:
- A failure to make a thorough assessment of the patient's symptoms
- A failure to carry out necessary tests such as a pin prick test or straight leg raising
- A failure to recognise the significance of the patient's symptoms as indicative of cauda equina compression
- A failure to understand the urgency of the medical response
- A delay in making a referral for an MRI scan to identify the underlying cause of the patient's symptoms
- A delay in initiating surgery
If it is found that a medical professional has caused a delay in the diagnosis, management or treatment of cauda equina compression, it may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation which would address the impact of that negligence.
Contact a legal specialist promptly
Cauda equina syndrome compensation claims are extremely complex and often require the input of several medical experts to analyse the quality of the patient's medical care. This investigation needs to be carried out before the three-year deadline for the claim to be issued with a court. So, if you suspect that you or a loved one may be entitled to make a claim, contact a legal specialist as soon as possible.
Glynns Solicitors are specialists in medical negligence law with a specific focus on cauda equina syndrome claims.
Contact us today to talk to a solicitor, free of charge, about the possibility of making a claim.
We can offer No Win No Fee funding for medical negligence claims which we will discuss with you during your free initial telephone discussion.
Please call us on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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