Cauda Equina Claims

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Cauda Equina Syndrome is a medical emergency and needs to be treated urgently to avoid long-term irreparable neurological damage.

It is caused due to compression of the nerves in the lower portion of the spinal canal. If it is left untreated, it can lead to permanent loss of bowel and bladder control, paralysis of the legs and paraesthesia. The longer the delay in referring a patient for treatment for Cauda Equina Syndrome, the less likely that he or she will make a full recovery.

If your doctor has failed to recognise the symptoms of Cauda Equina Syndrome and failed to refer you for emergency treatment, then it is possible that you have a claim for medical negligence.

Cauda Equina Claims

What is Cauda Equina Syndrone

Cauda equina syndrome is a serious condition that occurs when the bundle of nerves at the lower end of the spinal cord (the cauda equina) becomes compressed. This can lead to severe pain, numbness, weakness in the legs, and loss of bladder or bowel control. If not diagnosed and treated promptly, it can result in permanent nerve damage and life-changing complications. Medical negligence claims for cauda equina syndrome often arise when there is a failure to recognise the warning signs, delays in diagnosis, or inadequate treatment.

Symptoms of Cauda Equina (often referred to as ‘red flags’) are:

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Low back pain
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Pain in one or both legs that starts in the buttocks and travels down the back of the thighs and legs (sciatica)
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Numbness or altered sensation in the groin area or if sitting
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Altered reflexes
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Incontinence
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Sexual disfunction
Decompression surgery is required to relieve the pressure on the spine. If a doctor misses the symptoms of cauda equina syndrome, then the consequences can be devastating for the patient.

Causes of Cauda Equina Syndrome:

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Trauma
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Herniated disk
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Spinal Stenosis
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Tumours
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Inflammatory conditions
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Infectious conditions (such as spinal epidural abscess)
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Medical Negligence
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Poorly positioned screws placed in the spine can compress and injure the nerves and cause cauda equina syndrome

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Continuous spinal anaesthesia has been linked to cauda equina syndrome
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Where a lumbar puncture causes a spinal epidural hematoma the collection of blood can compress the spine and cause cauda equina syndrome

FAQs – Cauda Equina Syndrome Claims

How do I know if I have a claim for cauda equina syndrome negligence?
You may have a claim if a medical professional failed to recognise the symptoms, misdiagnosed your condition, delayed treatment, or did not provide the appropriate medical care, resulting in further harm.

What are the common signs of medical negligence in cauda equina cases?
Negligence can occur if a doctor fails to:

Identify ‘red flag’ symptoms such as severe lower back pain, numbness in the saddle area, or loss of bladder/bowel control

Order an urgent MRI scan or specialist assessment
Provide timely surgery to relieve nerve compression

How long do I have to make a claim?
In Ireland, medical negligence claims generally must be made within two years of the date you became aware of the negligence. However, exceptions may apply, so it’s best to seek legal advice as soon as possible.

What compensation can I claim for cauda equina negligence?
Compensation can cover medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, loss of earnings, pain and suffering, and any long-term care or support needed due to the condition.

How much does it cost to make a claim?
Most medical negligence solicitors offer an initial consultation to discuss your case. Legal fees will depend on the complexity of your claim, and some firms may offer no-win, no-fee arrangements.

How long does a cauda equina syndrome claim take?
The duration of a claim depends on the complexity of the case and whether the healthcare provider accepts liability. Some cases are resolved in months, while others may take longer if they go to court.

What should I do if I think I have a case?
If you suspect medical negligence, seek legal advice as soon as possible. A solicitor will review your medical records, consult experts, and guide you through the claims process.

For more information about how we can help you with medical negligence claims, please contact Rachael Liston on 01-9123240 or email info@rachaelliston.ie

Why choose Rachael Liston LLP, Medical Negligence Solicitors?

Rachael Liston LLP, Medical Negligence Solicitors are recognised as one of the best medical negligence firms to represent clients who suffered from cauda equina syndrome as a result of medical negligence or clients with spinal injury claims.

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Cauda Equina Claims

Cauda Equina Syndrome is a medical emergency and needs to be treated urgently to avoid long-term irreparable neurological damage. If your doctor has failed to recognise the symptoms of Cauda Equina Syndrome and failed to refer you for emergency treatment, then it is possible that you have a claim for medical negligence.

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