Cauda Equina Syndrome is when the nerves at the bottom of the spinal cord are compressed, resulting in a pattern of neurological symptoms. In this article we explore how this nerve compression can happen.
Common causes of Cauda Equina Syndrome
There are a number of ways in which Cauda Equina Syndrome (CES) can occur, including:-
- Slipped disc: this is the most common cause of CES. It happens when a vertebral disc in the lower spine (known as the lumbar) become dislodged. This is known as a slipped, herniated or prolapsed disc. The piece of bone will then press upon the cauda equine nerves.
- Traumatic accident: it is possible that a form of physical trauma – such as a car collision, a fall or even a sporting accident – causes the spine to be fractured or partially dislocated. If this damage is sustained to the lumbar region, the bone (or even a collection of blood) will put pressure upon the cauda equina nerves.
- Tumour: a tumour on the spine may be an isolated tumour, or it may have spread from another part of the body, such as from the prostate. Either way, if a lesion on the lower spine is big enough, it will damage the nerves.
- Inflammation: certain inflammatory conditions such as Paget’s Disease and ankylosing spondylitis can cause the spinal canal to narrow. This will squeeze the nerves, leading to Cauda Equina Syndrome.
- Infection: if the spine becomes infected – for example, with a spinal epidural abscess – it will impinge on the spinal cord. In turn this will affect the nerve roots, causing Cauda Equina Syndrome.
- Spinal stenosis: spinal stenosis is a separate condition which causes the spinal column to narrow. This can have a knock-on effect, as the cauda equina nerves will be compacted, resulting in CES.
- Medical error: it is also possible that medical treatment damages the cauda equina nerves. This may happen, for example, if a spinal screw is not inserted in the correct place, if a lumbar puncture causes blood to collect in the spinal canal, or if continuous epidural anaesthesia is administered.
Cauda Equina Negligence
Whatever the underlying cause, it is absolutely vital Cauda Equina Syndrome is diagnosed and an appropriate course of treatment provided. If medical professionals fail to do so, or if their actions caused the condition to develop, there may be grounds for a compensation claim.
If you would like to know whether you can claim compensation for Cauda Equina Syndrome, speak to a legal expert from the Cauda Equina Solicitors today.