Complications of Cauda Equina Syndrome

If cauda equina syndrome is not treated in time, it can lead to serious, long-term complications. If this has happened to you, you could be entitled to claim compensation. Contact us today to find out more.

Cauda equina syndrome complications

Cauda equina syndrome is when the cauda equina nerves (at the bottom of the spinal cord) are compressed and damaged. This will result in a loss of function, leading to symptoms such as chronic back pain, difficultly urinating and the loss of sensation in the perineum/genitalia.

If compression is not alleviated with surgery, the nerves will become increasingly damaged and a patient’s symptoms will become more and more severe. Within a very short space of time, the injury to the nerves will be so extensive that the root cells die.

Nerve root cells die cannot regenerate. Therefore once they have died, the damage will be permanent. Even if surgery is subsequently performed, a patient will be left with the following long-term complications:-

1. Permanent nerve damage

The cauda equina nerves serve the legs, pelvic organs and peri-anal region, enabling both sensation and function. When the nerves are permanently damaged, sensation and function will be lost, resulting in problems such as:-

• Total or partial paralysis in the legs
• Constant back pain and sciatica
• Bladder dysfunction, possibly leading to the use of catheter
• Bowel dysfunction, possibly leading to the use of a colostomy bag
• Loss of anal tone
• Loss of sensation in the perineum, buttocks and genitals
• Sexual dysfunction, including the inability to achieve/maintain an erection

2. Psychological problems

The physical complaints will of course have a devastating impact upon a person’s life. He or she will not be able to do the things they once took for granted, including walking long distances, having intimate relations with a partner or simply having control over their bladder and bowels. This will be incredibly difficult to come to terms with and many will go on to develop psychological conditions such as depression.

3. Loss of employment

A person’s physical symptoms may also mean that he/she is unable to continue in their employment. This can result in significant financial trouble, particularly if the individual in question was previously a high earner or has dependants to care for.

Compensation for cauda equina complications

If you have suffered from cauda equina complications such as those described above, you need to question whether medical error is to blame. For example, if doctors failed to diagnose and treat the condition in time, despite the fact you were displaying the red flag symptoms, the level of care will be considered substandard.

As the innocent victim of unacceptable medical care, you will be entitled to claim compensation for the physical, emotional and financial damage you have wrongfully incurred.

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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