Outcome For Cauda Equina Syndrome

Cauda equina is a serious condition which can lead to permanent neurological dysfunction. In this article we explore the final functional outcome for cauda equina syndrome in more detail, explaining who is likely to achieve a positive prognosis, and who is likely to suffer ongoing complications.

Functional outcome for CES

The outcome for cauda equina syndrome will depend upon how much damage the cauda equina nerves sustain.

The condition occurs when the nerves are compressed and injured, resulting in a loss of function/sensation in the legs, genital region and pelvic organs. These symptoms will gradually worsen with time, because the longer compression continues the more damage the nerves will sustain.

This means that the final outcome is directly correlated to the amount of time it takes for the nerves to be decompressed. If surgery is performed within hours of the onset of symptoms, it should be possible to save the nerves from serious injury. However, if there is a delay, the nerves will be so damaged that the root cells will die. These cannot be regenerated, meaning the injury will be permanent.

It is worth noting that there are two types of cauda equina syndrome – acute and chronic. This does not make any different to the final outcome. Rather, it is the amount of time that lapses between the onset of symptoms and the decompression of nerves.

Prognosis for cauda equina syndrome

Those patients who undergo decompression surgery within 48 hours of the onset of acute symptoms stand a good chance of making a full recovery. There may be some residual symptoms, including leg weakness and bladder dysfunction. However, many will find that these resolve, or at least improve, with time.

On the other hand, those who have acute symptoms for more than 48 hours without undergoing surgery are likely to progress to the complete stage of the condition. This is when a person has no sensation or control over their bladder. When the condition is complete, the nerves will be irreparably injury. The patient will be left with permanent complications.

The severity of these long-term complications will depend upon the extent of nerve damage. Normally they will include a degree of:-

• Bladder dysfunction
• Bowel dysfunction
• Sexual dysfunction
• Loss of sensation in the buttock, legs and genital region
• Weakness or paralysis in the legs

Poor prognosis for CES

If you have been left with permanent cauda equina complications because doctors failed to treat you in time, you could be entitled to pursue a claim for compensation. Contact us today to find out more.

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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