Claiming Compensation for Missed Cauda Equina Syndrome Symptoms
Failing to recognise or failing to examine for symptoms indicative of cauda equina syndrome may be regarded as negligent. The patient may suffer appalling life-long problems and a compensation claim may be justified.
Responding to cauda equina syndrome
If a patient attends their GP or Accident and Emergency facility with early symptoms of cauda equina syndrome, it is vital that a thorough examination is carried out. If the medical practitioner has any concerns or is not sure of their diagnosis, specialist advice should be sought.
Sending a patient home with pain relief for their back pain but no referral for further attention could prove disastrous. The patient may lose control of their bowel and bladder within days and find that it is too late for surgery to bring about recovery. Their appalling symptoms may become permanent.
Patients who appear to be experiencing the symptoms of incomplete cauda equina syndrome are likely to need an emergency MRI scan to assess the cause of their symptoms. If it proves that their cauda equina nerves are suffering from compression, they may need emergency surgery to prevent further compression and further loss of lower body function.
Negligent symptom assessment
Missing what can be a very short-lived opportunity to save a patient from a lifetime of misery may well be regarded as negligent and justify a claim for compensation.
Symptoms which could indicate that the patient is developing cauda equina syndrome would include the following:
- Sciatica-like symptoms in both legs
- Altered sensation such as tingling or numbness in the saddle area
- Loss of sensation around the anus
- Having to strain when urinating or difficulty emptying the bladder
- Altered sensation when needing to urinate
If a patient’s symptoms deteriorate to the point where bladder sensation is completely lost, the best moment for surgery may have been missed.
It is, therefore, essential that a patient who is suffering from lower back and leg pain is thoroughly assessed for any of the above red flag symptoms. If they are not present, it is equally vital that they are advised that, should these symptoms develop, they need to attend Accident and Emergency immediately.
If medical professionals are responsible for the delay in accessing surgery, it may be possible to make a claim for compensation.
Speak to a solicitor
If you or a loved one are suffering the shocking effects of cauda equina syndrome due to a delay in diagnosing your condition, contact Glynns Solicitors to talk to a specialist medical negligence solicitor.
Please call us on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile 01275 334030) or complete our Online Enquiry Form.
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