CAUDA EQUINA SYNDROME
These serious claims usually arise as a result of delayed or inadequate treatment for compression of the nerves in the lower spine or as a result of negligent technique by a neurosurgeon when operating on the lower spine or by delay in recognising and treating a blood clot following spinal surgery. This condition can have a number of other causes including a ruptured disk, tumour, infection, fracture or narrowing of the spinal canal. Diagnosis is usually confirmed by MRI scan, myelogram and CAT scan. If the cause of the nerve compression is found and is amenable to treatment by surgery, the patient is usually referred immediately for surgical decompression on an emergency basis.
Cauda equina syndrome is caused by pressure on the bundle of nerves at the lower end of the spinal cord which transmit both motor and sensory messages from the brain to the legs and the bladder. The nerves that control the function of the bladder, bowel and genitals are especially vulnerable to damage. There may be a range of symptoms, the severity of which depends on the degree of compression of the nerves and may include severe low back pain, urinary or bowel incontinence, motor weakness or sensory loss in both legs, impotence in men and loss of perineal sensation in women and saddle anaesthesia which is inability to feel any sensation in the body areas that would sit on a saddle.
Without rapid and adequate treatment there may be permanent damage and urgent surgical intervention is usually necessary to restore bladder and bowel function to prevent further permanent deterioration which may in extreme cases cause paraplegia. Cauda equina syndrome compensation claims can result in the award of very substantial damages dependent on the degree of disability caused as a result of the negligent treatment.
We are a national network of independent solicitors who deal with clinical negligence compensation claims and we are all members of The Law Society panel of medical negligence experts. We are franchised to make an immediate application for legal aid and for those who do not meet the financial criteria for public funding we are prepared to consider talking action under the no win no fee scheme. If you would like free advice direct from a specialist solicitor on cauda equina syndrome compensation claims with no further obligation just complete the contact form and a clinical law expert will contact you as soon as possible.
THE SPINAL INJURIES ASSOCIATION
The Spinal Injuries Association is a national charity organisation that helps people suffering from spinal cord injury regardless of how the impairment occurred and whether or not it has resulted in full or partial paralysis. The association offers support to all who are affected by spinal cord injury, including the family and friends of the disabled person and aims to promote the integration and full participation in society of those who are suffering this injury enabling them to become fulfilled and in control of their lives.
The Spinal Injuries Association motto is 'because life needn't stop when you're paralysed' and offers support to individuals and their families, provides services which enables affected people to lead independent lives, campaigns for improved care and research and works to create awareness and understanding of the causes and consequences of spinal injury.
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