Cauda equina syndrome can be have a number of different underlying causes and can develop either suddenly or gradually over time. However, if treated in time, deterioration can be halted and recovery may even be possible.
Causes of cauda equina syndrome
If you are suffering with cauda equina syndrome, it is likely that you had prior back problems due to another condition.
The immediate causa of cauda equina syndrome is the compression or squashing of the nerves due to some form of condition or deformity in the lumbar region distorting the space within the spinal canal.
This compression can be caused by a variety of other conditions:
- The most frequent cause of cauda equina compression is a herniated or ruptured disc where one of the discs between the vertebrae in the lumbar region bulges and presses on the nerves
- Cauda equina syndrome can also be caused by spinal stenosis which refers to the degeneration of the spine, usually due to the aging process. This can cause a narrowing of the spinal canal, putting pressure on the nerves in that area
- You may have suffered a blood clot or haematoma following spinal surgery which then compressed the cauda equina nerves, causing your neurological symptoms of the lower body
- A bacterial infection of the spine, such as osteomyelitis, can develop in the lumbar region of the spine, causing swelling and squashing the cauda equina nerves
- Swelling in the lumbar region of the spine could also have been caused by a tumour
Deterioration from CESi to CESR
It is also possible that you have developed complete cauda equina syndrome (CESR) because your early symptoms were either is misdiagnosed or simply not treated with sufficient urgency.
If a patient attends their GP or A&E service with the early symptoms of cauda equina syndrome they should undergo an emergency MRI and, if the diagnosis is confirmed and they still retain some degree of bladder control, emergency decompression surgery.
If your early symptoms – perhaps bilateral leg pain and weakness, urinary difficulties, with some loss of sensation between the legs – were not diagnosed promptly and you underwent surgery too late to make much difference, it may be that you now have complete cauda equina syndrome due to negligence on the part of your medical professional.
Speak to a solicitor
If this scenario sounds familiar and you are now suffering with the appalling, long-term symptoms of cauda equina syndrome, you may wish to consider making a claim for compensation.
We are a team of specialist medical negligence solicitors with considerable experience in cauda equina syndrome claims. Contact us now to discuss your situation.