The website of the Clinical Services Journal

Tackling errors in Cauda Equina diagnosis

Maya Sushila warns that misdiagnosis of cauda equina syndrome often results from problems with communication, between clinicians and patients, and the cost of subsequent litigation to the NHS can be high.

Thursday 1 October 2020 saw the first annual cauda equina syndrome awareness day. Cauda equina syndrome is a rare condition that affects a group of nerve roots located at the bottom of the spinal cord. Failure to spot a ‘red flag symptom’ and get the right treatment (usually within 24-48 hours) may result in the progression of the condition, including chronic pain, loss of bladder control and the need to use a wheelchair

In this article, Maya Sushila shares that misdiagnosis of cauda equina syndrome often results from problems with communication between patients and their clinician, and she calls on NHS Trusts to support the need for improved recognition of this devastating condition. While, traditionally, attention has been given to building awareness of this condition among GPs, with increased GP appointment waiting times and painful symptoms, it is pertinent that ambulance staff, A&E consultants and neurosurgeons also are reminded of the ‘red flag symptoms’.

Prompt recognition and diagnosis of cauda equina syndrome is dependent upon clinical assessment, including a thorough history and description of the symptoms along with imaging, usually an MRI scan. If left undiagnosed for just 24-48 hours, the condition can have life-changing effects. While patients may feel uncomfortable discussing intimate symptoms with clinicians, delays in treatment and surgery can lead to less than optimal outcomes for the patient and a significant compensation claim of between £200,000 to £2 million against the NHS.

Log in or register FREE to read the rest

This story is Premium Content and is only available to registered users. Please log in at the top of the page to view the full text. If you don't already have an account, please register with us completely free of charge.
Register

Upcoming Events

Central Sterilising Club - Annual Scientific Meeting 2024

Crowne Plaza at Gerrard’s Cross
15th April 2024 – 16th April 2024

DECON UK 2024

National Conference Centre, Birmingham
17th April 2024

Infection Prevention & Control

National Conference Centre, Birmingham
23rd - 24th April 2024

Theatres & Decontamination Conference 2024

Coventry Building Society Arena
16th May 2024

The AfPP Roadshow - Birmingham

Millennium Point, Birmingham
18th May 2024

The AfPP Roadshow - Exeter

University of Exeter
22nd June 2024

Access the latest issue of Clinical Services Journal on your mobile device together with an archive of back issues.

Download the FREE Clinical Services Journal app from your device's App store

Upcoming Events

Central Sterilising Club - Annual Scientific Meeting 2024

Crowne Plaza at Gerrard’s Cross
15th April 2024 – 16th April 2024

DECON UK 2024

National Conference Centre, Birmingham
17th April 2024

Infection Prevention & Control

National Conference Centre, Birmingham
23rd - 24th April 2024

Theatres & Decontamination Conference 2024

Coventry Building Society Arena
16th May 2024

The AfPP Roadshow - Birmingham

Millennium Point, Birmingham
18th May 2024

The AfPP Roadshow - Exeter

University of Exeter
22nd June 2024

Access the latest issue of Clinical Services Journal on your mobile device together with an archive of back issues.

Download the FREE Clinical Services Journal app from your device's App store

Step Communications Ltd, Step House, North Farm Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN2 3DR
Tel: 01892 779999
www.step-communications.com
© 2024 Step Communications Ltd. Registered in England. Registration Number 3893025