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Failure to recognise red flag symptoms of cauda equina

Cauda equina syndrome (CES) is a severe neurological condition that occurs when the bundle of nerves at the base of the spinal cord – known as the ‘cauda equina’ – become compressed or damaged. It requires urgent medical attention to prevent irreversible damage such as paralysis and permanent bowel, bladder and sexual dysfunction. Unfortunately, failure to recognise the red flag symptoms of cauda equina syndrome early enough can lead to devastating lifelong consequences. Our specialist medical negligence lawyers can help you or your loved one if you have suffered as a result of a failure to recognise the red flag symptoms of cauda equina, call us on 0161 696 6165.

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What is failure to recognise red flag symptoms of cauda equina syndrome?

Failure to recognise red flag symptoms of cauda equina syndrome occurs when medical professionals do not promptly identify and treat warning signs indicative of CES. These red flags include severe lower back pain, loss of sensation or weakness in the leg(s), altered sensation in the genital area, urinary retention or incontinence, bowel incontinence or sudden sexual dysfunction. Timely diagnosis and surgical intervention are crucial to prevent permanent nerve damage. Misdiagnosis, delayed diagnosis or dismissing symptoms as minor issues can cause irreversible harm, significantly affecting a patient’s quality of life.

If you have experienced negligent care due to the failure of a medical professional to recognise the red flag symptoms of cauda equina syndrome, Stephensons can help you understand your rights and pursue a medical negligence claim.

Can you claim compensation for failure to recognise red flag symptoms of cauda equina syndrome?

Yes, if you have suffered unnecessary injury or deterioration in your condition due to a medical professional’s failure to acknowledge and act upon early signs of cauda equina syndrome, you may be entitled to compensation. To successfully make a claim, it must be demonstrated that:-

  • Breach of duty - The healthcare professional or institution provided medical care which fell below appropriate standards and /or acted negligently by failing to conduct appropriate investigations, tests, or referrals.
  • Causation - It must also be proven that this negligence directly contributed to your harm, suffering or worsened your medical outcome and prognosis.

Stephensons has vast experience handling medical negligence claims, enabling us to expertly evaluate your case and build a robust claim to help you secure the compensation you deserve, covering medical expenses, lost income, rehabilitation costs and future care requirements.

Why choose us?

Stephensons Solicitors LLP is recognised as one of the UK’s leading law firms specialising in medical negligence claims, including those related to cauda equina syndrome misdiagnosis. Our dedicated and highly skilled team of solicitors offer the benefit of extensive experience, compassion, and a thorough understanding of the complexities involved in CES cases.

We are accredited by the Law Society for Clinical Negligence and we are proud holders of a Lexcel Accreditation demonstrating our commitment to the highest standards in client care and legal excellence. Additionally, our medical negligence experts are recommended by independent legal directories such as Chambers UK and The Legal 500, providing assurance of quality and expertise.

We understand the emotional, psychological and financial strains placed upon clients and families affected by cauda equina syndrome misdiagnosis, and we remain dedicated to providing personalised, supportive and proactive legal advice throughout each step of the claims process.

How we can help

Our skilled legal team at Stephensons will thoroughly investigate your circumstances, working with trusted medical experts to gather evidence proving the extent of negligence and the impact it has had on your life. We aim to secure the maximum amount of compensation available and focus on guiding you clearly and compassionately through the claims process. By instructing Stephensons, you can access:

  • Comprehensive case assessment and expert guidance from specialist solicitors
  • Access to leading medical experts to strengthen your claim
  • Clear, straightforward communication to keep you informed and updated
  • Support with interim payments for early rehabilitation and financial assistance
  • Representation dedicated to achieving justice and proper compensation

Contact us

If you or a loved one has been affected by the failure to recognise red flags of cauda equina syndrome, do not hesitate to contact Stephensons Solicitors LLP today for a confidential, no-obligation discussion. Call our medical negligence team now on 0161 696 6165 or fill in our online enquiry form for a callback. We are here to offer you immediate and professional support.

Frequently asked questions

What are the red flag symptoms of cauda equina syndrome?

Some critical red flags include severe lower back pain, sciatica-type pain, numbness around the genitals and anus (saddle anaesthesia), leg weakness, urinary retention or incontinence, bowel dysfunction and sudden sexual dysfunction.

How long does it take to pursue a cauda equina syndrome negligence claim?

Each case is unique, but due to the complexity of medical evidence and expert reports required, CES negligence claims usually take between 18 to 36 months to reach resolution. Stephensons will always strive for the quickest possible outcome without compromising on compensation.

How much compensation can I expect to receive?

Compensation amounts vary depending on the severity of injuries, long-term effects and financial losses involved. Stephensons will carefully evaluate your claim with medical experts to ensure fair and maximum compensation for your specific circumstances.

Is there a time limit for claiming compensation?

In line with standard medical negligence claims, according to the Limitation Act 1980, the general time limit for making a compensation claim related to failure to recognise the red flag symptoms of cauda equina syndrome in the UK is three years from the date of negligence occurrence or three years from the date you became aware of negligence causing harm (often known as the "date of knowledge"). However, exceptions do exist in specific circumstances, including:

  • If the claimant is under the age of 18, the three-year limitation period begins on their 18th birthday, expiring at age 21.
  • If the claimant lacks mental capacity, the time limitation may potentially be extended indefinitely until the claimant regains capacity.
  • If the alleged defendant agrees to a limitation extension, and/or the Court approves an extension in specific circumstances at its own discretion.

Although three years may seem sufficient, we strongly recommend contacting Stephensons as early as possible after the negligence event occurs. Prompt legal action allows our solicitors maximum opportunity for evidence collection, expert advice, and achieving successful outcomes.

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