Cauda Equina Syndrome Due to a Herniated Disc

A herniated or slipped disc is the most common cause of cauda equina syndrome. The product of compression of the cauda equina nerves at the base of the spine, this appalling condition can result in devastating loss of lower body function.

What is a herniated disc?

The discs of the spine are located between the vertebrae of the spine and function both to facilitate movement in the spine as well as to absorb some of the pressure in the spine.

A herniated disc is one where the softer jelly-like contents of the centre of the disc escape through the harder exterior, thus distorting the shape of the disc and introducing alien material into the space of the spinal canal.

The impact of a herniated disc

A herniated disc can put pressure on the nerves which are located alongside the spine. This, in turn, can cause irritation and loss of the function of that nerve, resulting in pain and possible loss of sensation and function in other areas of the body.

Cauda equina syndrome

In the case of cauda equina syndrome, the impact of a herniated disc can be catastrophic. Located in the lower, lumbar region of the spine, the cauda equina nerves control sensation and function in the lower body. They are key to the passing of messages of feeling from the legs, pelvic region, bowel and bladder, to the brain.

If the compression of the cauda equina nerves becomes severe the patient can suffer a lifetime of debilitating sensory loss including the following effects:

• Loss of bladder control
• Loss of bowel control
• Loss of sexual sensation and function
• Loss of feeling in the legs
• Loss of control of the ankle reflexes

Preventing loss of function

It is possible to prevent such devastating and life-changing loss of function if the early symptoms of cauda equina syndrome are recognised before the compression of the nerves progresses too far.

If a patient visits their GP or A&E service with early symptoms such as pain and tingling in one of the legs along with changes in sensation between the legs and alteration of urinary experience, they probably require an emergency MRI scan to assess the cause.

If their scan shows that the cauda equina nerves are being compressed they are likely to need emergency surgery to prevent further loss of function and, it is hoped, to restore lost function.

Medical negligence

A failure to recognise the early signs of cauda equina syndrome, leading to a permanent deterioration in the patient’s symptoms may be regarded as having provided a substandard level of care.

If you or a loved one continue to experience the dreadful symptoms of complete cauda equina syndrome due to a delay in diagnosis and treatment, contact us to talk to a specialist medical negligence solicitor about the possibility of a claim for compensation.

Please call us free on 0800 234 3300, from a mobile click to call 01275 334030 or complete our Free Online Enquiry for a no cost, no obligation opinion.

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