MRI scans play a vital role in the diagnosis of cauda equina syndrome but several hurdles can delay this key procedure. A failure with regards to the MRI may lead to a catastrophic outcome for the patient and warrant a claim for compensation.
Significance of an MRI in cauda equina syndrome
If a patient is developing cauda equina syndrome, it is imperative that they undergo decompression surgery before their symptoms deteriorate and function and sensation in the lower body is lost. When a patient presents with the early symptoms of cauda equina syndrome, an MRI scan is needed to confirm that compressed cauda equina nerves are, indeed, the cause of their problems. The undertaking and reporting of an MRI is, therefore, a matter of emergency as surgery is usually considered to be necessary as soon as possible and within 24 to 48 hours of diagnosis.
MRI Failings
Between a referral by a GP or A&E practitioner for an MRI scan and the receipt by the surgeon of an accurate scan report, a number of problems may arise which result in the patient losing vital time.
- If a medical professional fails to refer a patient for an emergency MRI scan when that patient is exhibiting red flag symptoms of cauda equina syndrome – such as urinary difficulties and leg pain and tingling or numbness – they may be considered to have acted negligently if that patient subsequently develops complete cauda equina syndrome prior to surgery
- If the hospital fails to carry out or organise an MRI scan within a reasonable period of time thus delaying the diagnosis and possibly compromising the patient’s health before surgery is possible, they may have provided a substandard level of care
- If the MRI findings show compression of the cauda equina nerves and yet those results are not communicated appropriately within a reasonable time frame, thereby delaying what should be emergency surgery, there may have been a failing in care
- If the MRI scan is misinterpreted and the decompression of the cauda equina nerves is subsequently delayed leading to a poor patient outcome, the relevant practitioner may be considered to have acted negligently
Medical Negligence
A delay in surgery for cauda equina syndrome can mean the difference between recovery of function and a lifetime of distressing and debilitating urinary, mobility and bowel symptoms.
If you are suffering with the appalling long-term symptoms of cauda equina syndrome due to a failing by medical practitioners to deal with your MRI scan in a timely and accurate manner, you may be able ot make a claim for compensation.
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