Suing the NHS for Cauda Equina Negligence
Compression of the cauda equina nerves, leading to cauda equina syndrome, can be a highly-distressing and life-changing experience. It requires scrupulous and timely medical attention if the worst effects are to be avoided.
Cauda equina syndrome
If medical professionals are found to have been negligent in their care of this appalling condition, it may well be appropriate to make a claim for compensation.
If an individual is left with complete cauda equina syndrome or CESR due to substandard medical care, they may suffer the following symptoms for the rest of their life:
- Incontinence of wind and faeces
- Loss of bladder sensation and control
- Loss of sexual sensation and function
- Loss of mobility
The on-going impact can affect virtually every aspect of a person's life from their ability to work to their ability to function independently.
Medical care of cauda equina compression
- Diagnosis: In order to give the patient the best chance of a good outcome, it is essential that cauda equina compression is diagnosed as promptly as possible. The sooner this debilitating condition is diagnosed, the sooner surgery can be carried out to prevent further loss of lower body function. The longer diagnosis and surgery are delayed, the more likely the condition is to deteriorate, leaving the patient with permanent and disabling symptoms. If medical professionals fail to recognise the possible symptoms, thereby delaying investigation, diagnosis and treatment, they may be regarded as having provided negligent care. It may be appropriate to make a claim for compensation for any consequences of such negligence, such as loss of income.
- Surgery: If cauda equina compression is confirmed by an MRI scan, it is generally regarded as necessary that surgical decompression of the nerves takes place as soon as possible, especially if the patient still retains bladder sensation and function. Emergency surgery within hours rather than days is considered as ideal. A delay in arranging surgery which allows the patient to suffer a deterioration in symptoms may be regarded as negligent.
Suing the NHS for cauda equina negligence
If you believe that substandard medical care has caused you or a loved one to suffer the appalling disability associated with cauda equina syndrome, contact Glynns Solicitors to discuss the possibility of making a claim for compensation. A successful claim would take account not only of the patient's pain and suffering but also the financial losses caused by the consequences of the negligence.
Glynns is a specialist medical negligence legal practice with a team of lawyers with extensive experience in cauda equina claims.
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