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Cauda Equina Syndrome Claims Solicitors

Cauda equina syndrome is an emergency condition that, unless diagnosed and treated quickly, can cause permanent paralysis, incontinence, and life-changing nerve damage. When the warning signs are missed or treatment is delayed, the consequences for the patient can be devastating and long-lasting.

If you or a loved one has suffered avoidable harm because of the failure to diagnose or treat cauda equina syndrome, our experienced medical negligence solicitors can help. To discuss your cauda equina syndrome claim with a specialist medical negligence solicitor, please either telephone us on 01457 761 320 or email kenneth.lees@odonnellsolicitors.co.uk, and a member of the team will contact you for a free, no-obligation consultation.

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Understanding Cauda Equina Syndrome Claims

The cauda equina are a bundle of nerve roots at the base of the spinal column which control the muscles of the legs, pelvic organs, and genitals.

Cauda equina syndrome describes the compression of these nerve roots, most commonly due to spinal disc herniation, stenosis of the spinal canal, infection, or trauma. Sometimes, this can be due to a surgical error.

What Are the Symptoms of Cauda Equina Syndrome?

The symptoms of cauda equina syndrome include bilateral sciatica, severe or worsening weakness or numbness in both legs, numbness around or under the genitals or anus, difficulties with bladder or bowel function (or both), and sexual dysfunction. 

Any patient presenting with these symptoms must be treated as a medical emergency, because the longer that the cauda equina are compressed, the more likely it is that extensive and long-term damage will result. NHS guidance states that, where indicated, spinal surgery is required within 24 to 48 hours of symptoms developing to release pressure on the cauda equina and to minimise the extent of nerve damage. Delayed treatment can result in permanent lower back pain, incontinence, loss of sexual function, and paralysis. 

Types of Cauda Equina Syndrome Negligence Claims We Can Help With

The specialist medical negligence team at O’Donnell Solicitors has extensive experience in acting for clients across the North West in claims involving the failure to diagnose and treat cauda equina syndrome. These claims involve careful analysis of the impact on the client to ensure that financial compensation is secured to meet their future needs.

We regularly advise on cauda equina syndrome claims arising from delayed diagnosis, failure to refer urgently, misinterpretation of imaging, and delayed surgical treatment, including:

  • GP negligence in failing to recognise red flag symptoms of cauda equina syndrome
  • A&E or urgent treatment centre failures to identify cauda equina syndrome
  • NHS 111 misdirection or failure to escalate red flag symptoms
  • Misdiagnosis as sciatica, back strain or another non-emergency condition
  • Delays in arranging an emergency MRI scan
  • Radiological failures to identify or report cauda equina compression on imaging
  • Failure to refer urgently to a spinal surgical unit
  • Delays in carrying out emergency decompression surgery within the recommended timeframe
  • Surgical errors during spinal decompression
  • Failure to monitor the patient post-operatively and act on signs of deterioration
  • Fatal claims and inquests arising from complications of cauda equina syndrome

For more on how delayed diagnosis causes lasting harm and what makes these claims succeed, read our guide: Cauda Equina Syndrome Negligence Claims: What You Need To Know

For more information on how a medical negligence claim works, including time limits, funding and compensation, please see our main Medical Negligence page.

Why Choose O’Donnell Solicitors for Your Cauda Equina Syndrome Claim

O’Donnell Solicitors’ Medical Negligence Department is headed by Kenneth Lees and supported by a team with over a decade of combined experience in clinical negligence litigation. We offer a free, no-obligation initial consultation, and the vast majority of claims can be funded by way of a no win, no fee agreement. As a regional firm acting for clients across the North West, we combine specialist expertise with a personal and accessible service.

Contact Us

If you would like to discuss your cauda equina syndrome claim with a specialist medical negligence solicitor, please email Kenneth.Lees@odonnellsolicitors.co.uk or telephone 01457 761 320 and a member of the team will contact you for a free, no obligation discussion.

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