Cauda Equina Syndrome

Have you undergone back surgery due to a cauda equina syndrome injury caused by someone's negligence?

Cauda equina syndrome (CES) is a rare disorder caused by the compression of nerve roots (cauda equina) at the lower end of the spinal cord, which can cause serious nerve damage, impaired bladder and/or bowel control, and even permanent paralysis of the lower body.

Cauda equina syndrome affects many different nerve roots along the lower part of the spinal cord. The job of the cauda equina nerves is to send and receive messages between the brain and the lower body, and prolonged compression of these nerves can cause nerve damage and permanent disabilities.

Because of the potential for nerve damage and even paralysis, cauda equina syndrome is typically considered a surgical emergency. The injury does not improve on its own, so it's important to mitigate any lasting damage by seeking medical treatment immediately.

If you've been diagnosed with cauda equina syndrome following a medical procedure, car accident, work injury, or due to someone else's negligence, you may be owed compensation for your medical bills, pain and suffering, lost wages, and more. For a free consultation, call the Dallas attorneys at Rasansky Law Firm at (214) 651-6100 today.

Causes of cauda equina syndrome.

Adults are more susceptible to cauda equina syndrome than children, although it does sometimes occur in children who were born with a spinal defect (e.g., spina bifida) or who have undergone spinal injury. Some of the most-common causes of CES include:

• A severely ruptured lumbar disk
• Narrowing of the spinal canal
• A tumor
• An infection, inflammation, fracture, or hemorrhage in the spinal area
• Complications that result from a severe injury to the lumbar spine
• Complications resulting from back or spine surgery
• A birth defect

Symptoms of cauda equina syndrome.

Because symptoms vary and may develop slowly (and because the symptoms that accompany CES may mimic other conditions), it can be difficult to diagnose cauda equina syndrome. If you experience any of the following symptoms, it's advised that you alert your doctor immediately:

• Severe pain in the lower back
• Weakness, pain, or numbness is one or both legs
• Loss of sensations or altered sensations in the legs, buttocks, feet, and inner thighs
• Recent development of bladder or bowel problems
• Sudden development of sexual dysfunction or loss of sensation

Treatment of cauda equina syndrome.

CES requires prompt medical treatment in order to alleviate pressure from the nerves and ensure permanent damage does not occur. The ideal treatment time is within the first 48 hours of experiencing symptoms.

While the vast majority of CES cases require emergency surgery, some people may only require high doses of corticosteroids — but this is contingent upon the cause of the CES. These medications may reduce the swelling, but do not address the underlying cause.

Treatment is no guarantee that you will regain all functionality. How much functionality you regain depends how much damage you suffered, which usually correlates to the amount of time your nerves were compressed. Even after surgery, it may be years before you regain full muscle control.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with CES as a result of medical malpractice, a car accident, or any type of personal injury, it’s important to consult with an attorney about any potential claims you may have.

The Dallas personal injury lawyers at Rasansky Law Firm can help investigate the facts of your case and explain the options available to you for absolutely no cost. Call us today for a free consultation at (214) 651-6100.