Could My CES have Been Avoided?

Complete cauda equina syndrome is a distressing and life-changing condition. Sometimes, when onset of the condition is sudden, there is little that can be done. But in some circumstances, prompt action might have produced a better outcome.

Symptoms of permanent cauda equina syndrome

A patient with permanent, complete cauda equina syndrome is likely to be suffering with an array of deeply unpleasant symptoms such as:

• Bladder incontinence
• Bowel incontinence
• Sexual dysfunction
• Numbness in the legs and foot drop

These are symptoms which anyone would want to avoid but, if the patient has experienced a sudden onset of complete dysfunction, as occasionally happens, it may not have been possible to achieve any degree of recovery.

Surgical Decompression

Surgery for cauda equina syndrome aims to remove the pressure on the cauda equina nerves which is causing the dysfunction in the lower body. It is hoped that it will, at the very least, prevent further deterioration but may also bring about some improvement in symptoms. However, the chances of this seem to be significantly less if the patient has already lost control of their bladder.

The point at which a patient might have avoided developing these symptoms is at an earlier stage in the condition’s development.

CESi

It seems that, if surgical decompression is undertaken prior to the patient losing control of their bladder, there is a greater chance that no further loss of function will occur and some function may be recovered.

It is imperative, therefore, that patients with the early symptoms of cauda equina syndrome are identified promptly by the medical practitioner and referred for further tests – usually an MRI scan – immediately.
Red flag symptoms

The red flag symptoms which should suggest that a patient might be developing cauda equina syndrome are:

• Pain and tingling in one or both legs and lower back
• Numbness in the saddle area
• Difficulties with urinating such as having to strain
• Reduction in ankle reflexes

The patient can deteriorate from these symptoms to complete cauda equina syndrome very quickly so taking immediate action is key to the patient’s long-term outcome.

Had an emergency referral been made at that time, it is possible that the patient may, indeed, have avoided a lifetime with cauda equina syndrome.

Medical Negligence

If a patient presents with early signs of cauda equina syndrome but a referral is delayed, or surgery is not undertaken within 24 – 48 hours of diagnosis, allowing the patient’s symptoms to deteriorate, the medical professionals may be considered to have offered a substandard level of care.

In those circumstances, it may be reasonable for the patient to make a claim for compensation.

Speak to a solicitor

If you or a loved one have suffered the consequences of such negligent care, you may wish to consider speaking to a solicitor.

We are a specialist medical negligence practice with extensive experience of supporting cauda equina syndrome claims. Contact us to discuss your situation with an experienced solicitor.

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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