Caudia Equina Syndrome (CES)
Caudia equina syndrome is a spinal injury caused by compression of the nerve roots in the lumbar spine. This compression cuts off sensation and movement and often effects the nerve roots that control the bladder and bowel. Caudia equina should be treated urgently to prevent devastating consequences..
Early treatment for Caudia equina syndrome is vital and, if not treated urgently, can lead to permanent loss or impairment of bowel and bladder control, paralysis, paranesthesia, pain and loss of sexual sensation.
Patients should be referred for treatment without delay to avoid any risk of permanent or long-term damage.
Caudia equina can be treated with immediate surgery to relieve the pressure on the nerves.
Symptoms can vary in intensity and even evolve over time, even with immediate treatment full recovery is not guaranteed.
Symptoms of Caudia equina:
- Lower back pain
- Sciatica
- Numbness in the groin area
- Altered reflexes
- Incontinence
- Sexual disfunction
Causes of Caudia equina:
- Slipped disc
- Injury to lumbar spine
- Tumors
- Infection
- Damage during surgery
- Medical negligence
For more information, please contact our team, Avril Scally, Partner and Head of the Medical Negligence Department and Nicholas Moore, Medical Negligence Solicitor on (01) 644 5800 or email law@lavellepartners.ie.