UK CAUDA EQUINA SYNDROME COMPENSATION CLAIMS

Cauda equina syndrome (CES) claims result when the treatment for compression of the nerves in the lower spine is delayed or inadequate. The causes of this condition include ruptured disks, infections, fractures, tumours and narrowing of the spinal canal which effectively put pressure onto the bundle of nerves at the base of the spine that radiate out to control the lower body. CES may be diagnosed by physical examination confirmed by MRI, CAT scan or a myelogram. In order to prevent permanent and untreatable nerve damage this condition is treated as a medical emergency and immediate surgery to effect nerve de-compression may resolve the problem failing which patients can be left with loss of feeling, incontinence and paralysis.

The most common cause of cauda equine syndrome is accidents, particularly road traffic accidents or falls from height and whilst there may be early diagnosis of the condition indicating the necessity for surgical procedures there are frequently operative difficulties and negligence in the operating theatre may leave the victim with paralysis which again is grounds for making a medical negligence compensation claim.

The most common symptoms of cauda equine syndrome include :-

• low back pain
• loss of feeling in the ‘saddle’ area
• urinary incontinence
• bowel disturbances including incontinence and constipation
• loss of anal muscle tone and sensation
• lower limb weakness and loss of sensation

If you or a loved one have suffered from a spinal injury, regardless of whether it was the result of medical negligence or not, the Spinal Injuries Association is available to assist the victims of spinal injuries. They are a national charity who can offer support to anyone affected in this way, with or without paralysis. Their motto is “Life needn’t stop when you’re paralysed.” They help patients to lead independent lives.

The Spinal Injuries Association
76 St.James's Lane
Muswell Hill
London
N10 3DF
Tel: 020 8444 2121
Fax: 020 8444 3761

For honest and independent legal advice contact our professionals today. Simply fill in the online contact form and a solicitor will call you. If you have suffered personal injury and you fear you may have been the victim of incompetence there is no time for delay. In order to know your options you should seek expert legal advice as soon as possible. Our solicitors operate a free service whereby you can meet us in person or chat over the telephone with one of our friendly experts and obtain initial advice. If you subsequently decide to proceed no further then that is your right and you will not be charged for our initial advice.