Cauda Equina Function Loss and Compensation for Negligent Medical Care
If the cauda equina nerves in the lumbar region of the spine
become squashed or compressed, the individual affected is in danger of
losing a significant degree of lower body function.
This can include a loss of mobility, a loss of bowel and bladder control and sensation as well as a loss of sexual sensation and function.
Cauda equina nerve compression
Compression of the nerves can be caused by local events such as a tumour in the region of the nerves or a prolapsed disc pressing on the nerve. This situation can worsen over time and cause the individual increasing loss of function.
In order to minimise the degree of function loss, therefore, it is essential that compression of the cauda equina nerves is identified as soon as possible. This should prompt the initiation of surgery to decompress the nerves and restore function or at least prevent further function loss.
Delays in diagnosis and treatment can be associated with greater loss of function than would otherwise be the case and which may become permanent.
Negligent medical care
The role of the medical professional is key to the best outcome. Where a patient presents with possible symptoms of cauda equina compression, an early diagnosis is needed.
If a medical professional fails in their management of this life-changing condition, thereby causing the patient to suffer a worse outcome than should have been the case, they may be regarded as having been negligent and it may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation for the impact on the patient resulting from the negligence.
Examples of actions or failings by medical professionals which may result in a delay in appropriate care and a deterioration in the patient’s condition could include the following:
- A failure to carry out a thorough assessment of the patient’s symptoms, allowing relevant symptoms to be missed
- A failure to recognise that the patient’s symptoms may be indicative of cauda equina compression
- A failure to understand the urgency of the patient’s situation and the possible need for an immediate MRI scan
- A misdiagnosis
- A delay in making a referral
- A delay in carrying out an MRI scan
- A failure to provide adequate red flag advice to a patient in danger of developing cauda equina syndrome
Speak to a medical negligence specialist
Glynns Solicitors is a dedicated medical negligence legal practice with extensive expertise in cauda equina syndrome claims.
Contact us today to talk to a solicitor, free of charge, about the possibility of making a claim for compensation for negligent care of cauda equina compression.
Please call us on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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