GP Cauda Equina Syndrome Negligence and Claiming Compensation
Delays in the recognition and treatment of cauda equina compression are not restricted to Accident and Emergency. They may start in the GP surgery even before the patient gets to hospital. If this is the case, it may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation for the impact on the patient's long-term outcome.
Cauda equina compression in the GP surgery
If a patient attends their GP with the possible symptoms of cauda equina compression, it is essential that this potentially- debilitating condition is identified or ruled out. A failure to do so may allow the patient to develop the disabling condition cauda equina syndrome which can permanently undermine an individual's mobility, sexual function and bowel continence.
A patient with lower back pain may be developing cauda equina compression and it is important to consider this possibility.
- Make a thorough assessment of the patient to identify any additional symptoms such as bilateral leg pain and altered sensation, urinary difficulties, and altered perineal sensation
- Where necessary, carry out tests to ascertain levels of pain and sensation
- Where appropriate, make a timely referral for an MRI scan to identify the underlying cause of the patient's symptoms
- Where appropriate, provide the patient with red flag advice so that they know what new symptoms should prompt them to attend hospital immediately
If a GP fails to do any of the above when it would normally be regarded as appropriate to do so, they may be regarded as having been negligent in their care of their patient.
The outcome, such as a misdiagnosis and a failure of treatment or a delay in a correct diagnosis, may fundamentally alter the patient's long term outcome.
Claiming compensation
Cauda equina syndrome is, thankfully, rare, but patients who are suffering from this appalling condition experience significant disability. If negligence in the GP surgery has contributed to this distressing outcome, it may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation.
A successful claim can address the financial losses which the patient has suffered such as a loss of income and the costs of care or treatment or household adaptations where needed.
The medical management of this condition may vary from person to person and the impact on their physical condition and their quality of life may likewise vary. Consequently, these are highly complex compensation claims and, if you are thinking of making a claim, it is crucial that you get advice from a specialist medical negligence lawyer.
They will be able to access your medical records and analyse the quality of your medical care and the extent and nature of the impact of any negligence.
Speak to a specialist
Glynns Solicitors is a dedicated medical negligence legal practice with a specific focus on cauda equina syndrome claims.
Contact us today to speak with an experienced 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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