Cauda Equina Compresssion

At the bottom of the spinal cord sits a bundle of nerves called the cauda equina. If these become compressed for any reason, the individual in question will go on to develop a condition called cauda equina syndrome.

If you or a family member are suffering from cauda equina compression, our best advice is to contact us urgently for specialist advice.

Call us free on 0800 234 3300 or from a mobile click to call 01275 334030 or complete our free online enquiry form.

Compression of the cauda equina nerves

The spinal cord runs from the brain, down through the middle of the spine and ends in the lower back. It then branches out into a number of different nerve roots which together are known as the cauda equina, so called because it looks like a horse’s tail.

The cauda equina nerves are responsible for providing sensation and function to the bladder, bowel, genitalia, perineum and buttocks. So if they become damaged, they will not be able to work properly. Consequently a number of symptoms will materialise, including a lack of sensation in the genitalia, buttocks and bladder, poor rectal tone, sexual dysfunction and chronic pain in the back.

So how exactly do the cauda equina nerves become damaged? Normally this will occur when something compresses the nerves. This might happen if:-

• A vertebral disc slips and presses upon the nerves;
• A tumour or lesion develops on the lower spine and impinges the nerves;
• A medical condition causes the spine to narrow or become inflamed, squashing the nerves;
• A traumatic incident such as a car accident penetrates the nerves.

How should Cauda Equina Compression be treated?

When the cauda equina nerves are compressed and the affected individual starts to experience those symptoms as described above, he or she is said to have cauda equina syndrome. This must be treated with urgent decompression surgery to alleviate the pressure being placed upon the nerves.

It will also be necessary to treat whatever is causing the compression in the first place. So if it is a slipped disc, this must be removed. If it is a tumour, a cancer treatment plan must be devised. If it is an infection, antibiotics must be provided.

This must be done urgently because within a very short space of time the nerves will become so damaged that the nerve cells die, after which they cannot regenerate. This will result in permanent dysfunction, leading to life-changing complications such as urinary incontinence, sexual dysfunction and chronic pain.

What if there is a delay in performing decompression surgery?

It is down to medical professionals to ensure a patient avoids long-term complications. This can be achieved with a prompt diagnosis and urgent treatment.

If there is a failure to meet this level of care and a delay in diagnosis and treatment causes further injury, there will be a case of medical negligence.

If doctors have failed to diagnose and treat your cauda equina compression in time, you need to speak to us at the Cauda Equina Solicitors about claiming compensation.

Make A Free Enquiry About Cauda Equina Compression

Please call us free on 0800 234 3300, from a mobile click to call 01275 334030 or complete our Free Online Enquiry for a no cost, no obligation opinion.

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