Cauda Equina Scan Delays and Claiming Compensation for Disability
If a patient is in danger of developing cauda equina syndrome, a timely MRI scan can trigger emergency surgery which may prevent loss of lower body function. Delays by medical professionals may be regarded as negligent and may justify a claim for compensation.
Delayed diagnosis of cauda equina nerve compression
Compression of the cauda equina nerves can cause significant loss of lower body function if it is not diagnosed and treated promptly. This appalling and life-changing condition is often progressive meaning that there may be a window of opportunity during which diagnosis and surgery are possible before the compression and function loss worsens. However, it also means that, if diagnosis is not achieved promptly, the patient's condition can worsen before surgery is carried out.
An MRI scan to confirm the underlying cause of the patient's symptoms is crucial to a diagnosis and the timing may often be regarded as an emergency. If medical professionals fail to suspect the symptoms of cauda equina compression and fail to make an appropriate referral, the patient may suffer permanent disability including the following terrible effects:
- Inability to control the passing of wind
- Inability to control the passing of faeces
- Loss of mobility
- Loss of sexual function
Negligent MRI delays in cauda equina syndrome
The following failings resulting in a delayed MRI scan may be regarded as negligent:
- A failure to suspect cauda equina compression leading to a failure to refer or a delay in referring a patient for an MRI scan
- An inappropriate request for an MRI scan, such as failing to identify the emergency nature of the situation
- A delay in carrying out an MRI scan
- A failure to transfer a patient to 24/7 facilities when this would normally be regarded as necessary
- A delay in reporting the results of an MRI scan
Claiming compensation
If medical delays in diagnosis, examination, testing or treatment have allowed a patient's condition to worsen before surgery is carried out, the patient is legally entitled to claim compensation for the impact of that negligence, such as loss of income if the individual is no longer able to work.
If this has happened to you or a loved one, it is advisable to speak with a medical negligence specialist as claims related to cauda equina negligence are extremely complex.
Speak to a specialist solicitor
Glynns Solicitors is a dedicated medical negligence legal practice with extensive expertise in high-value cauda equina claims. Contact us today to talk to a specialist solicitor, free of charge, about the possibility of making a claim.
Please call us on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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