14 March 2024
Cauda Equina: Alix Walker, Head of the Clinical Negligence Department considers the “horse’s tail”
Although rare, cauda equina syndrome (CES) can have a life changing impact on an individual if not treated promptly.
Cauda equina is Latin for “horse’s tail” and is the bundle of nerves and nerve roots that are at the bottom of the spinal cord.
Cauda equina syndrome is compression of the nerves and can be caused by a herniated disc, infection, trauma (such as a fracture), a tumour or narrowing of the spinal canal.
Red flags
Severe back pain in itself does not mean that a patient has cauda equina but it is important to be aware of ‘red flag’ signs which may include paraesthesia (numbness) in the saddle area (groin, perineum and buttocks), bilateral sciatica, bladder or bowel dysfunction (such as incontinence, difficulty urinating, loss of sensation, inability to control urination or bowel movements and loss of feeling during a bowel movement), pain or an altered sensation in the legs or loss of sexual sensation.
Diagnosis
Where any of these warning signs are present it is important that CES is ruled out at the earliest opportunity. Diagnosing the condition is usually done by carrying out a thorough assessment of symptoms and an urgent MRI scan. The condition will then be designated as either suspected (CES-S), incomplete (CES-I), retention (CES-R) or complete (CES-C). Where it is suspected a patient may be admitted for observations and where it is confirmed surgery will need to take place promptly to ensure the best outcome for the patient.
Anyone suffering with any of these red flag symptoms should seek urgent medical attention.
Failure to recognise symptoms can result in a range of health issues from mobility problems, sexual dysfunction, bladder and bowel issues to chronic pain and even paralysis. Therefore, it is vitally important that once it is suspected steps are taken to treat it.
CES cases are notoriously difficult to prove, but if you think you may have been impacted by potential negligence our team of expert clinical negligence lawyers will be able to tell you whether you may have a case and advise you of the process should you wish to pursue a claim.
We will consider each case on its own facts, reviewing the records and analyse what happened to consider where there was a missed opportunity to promptly diagnose and treat the condition.
How can True help?
If you believe that you have undergone a delay in diagnosis or treatment for critical limb ischemia, you may be entitled to compensation.
Our solicitors dealing with clinical negligence claims are based at our Newcastle head office but can assist anyone in living in England and Wales with their case.
We offer our clients:
Our team of expert lawyers will be able to tell you whether you may have a case against your healthcare provider and can also advise you of the process should you wish to pursue a claim.
