cauda equina syndrome
Cauda Equina syndrome occurs when the sensor
and motor nerves running through the spinal cord which supply the
muscles of the legs, buttocks, bladder, bowel and genitals become
damaged. Depending upon the extent of damage, this can cause
temporary or permanent symptoms. However, sensory nerves in
particular do not re-grow well and loss of sensation can often be
permanent. This can result in loss of motor function and loss
of feelings over the legs causing problems with mobility, but often
more distressingly for the patients, loss of normal bladder and
bowel function and loss of sexual sensation. These injuries
are very significant and can have a huge impact upon an
individual’s day-to-day life and ability to work.
The Clinical Negligence team at Blake
Lapthorn have a considerable depth of experience in
investigating and pursuing Cauda Equina cases. The syndrome
can develop as a result of a traumatic injury such as a fracture, a
massive disc prolapse, (severe slipped disc) or by another cause
such as a spinal cyst compressing the nerves within the spinal
cord. We know from experience that the most significant
factor in successful treatment of Cauda Equina syndrome is the
length of time from the onset of symptoms to the performing of
surgery to decompress the nerves. It is fairly widely
accepted amongst the medical community that there is a relatively
narrow window of opportunity to prevent permanent nerve damage of
around 48 hours from the onset of initial symptoms to decompression
of the nerve. A high degree of suspicion and taking of a very
clear history of symptoms is therefore required from medical
advisors first examining the patient.
The proposed defendant in a Cauda Equina case may be a general
practitioner or other primary healthcare workers such as a
chiropractor who failed to recognise symptoms of Cauda Equina
syndrome and to refer the patient immediately to an appropriate
consultant, or the proposed defendant may be a consultant or
hospital body which has failed to appreciate the significance of a
patient’s symptoms and the urgency of the situation.
For further information please contact Alison McClure in the
Clinical Negligence team on 023 8085 7345 or email alison.mcclure@bllaw.co.uk.
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