£1m compensation recovered following delay in treating cauda equina syndrome

Mrs J had a history of back pain. When she heard a “pop” in her lower back, she experienced a surge of pain, as though her back was on fire, alongside numbness in the area around her genitals. An ambulance was called to her home.

The ambulance crew assessed Mrs J but advised that she only needed more painkillers. They didn’t carry out a neurological assessment or take her to hospital.

When Mrs J woke up the following morning, she was incontinent of urine. She was taken to hospital, where she underwent emergency surgery for cauda equina syndrome.

Despite emergency surgery, Mrs J was left with serious, lasting symptoms. She has no sensation in the area around her genitals and can’t feel herself passing urine. After initially using abdominal pressure to pass urine, she now self-catheterises.

Mrs J also has to manually evacuate her bowels every day. She experiences persistent pain and numbness in her left leg, and her mobility is affected.

Mrs J’s injuries have had a significant impact on her daily life. Her ongoing symptoms affect her mobility and mean she has to manage significant changes to her bladder and bowel function.

Despite these difficulties, Mrs J initially continued working with adaptations made by her supportive employer. However, she eventually had no option but to take voluntary redundancy at the age of 47.

Mrs J alleged that the ambulance crew had failed to assess her symptoms appropriately or arrange transport to hospital. She argued that a thorough assessment would have led to earlier intervention and a significantly better outcome.

The Ambulance Trust repeatedly denied liability. The team on the case pursued formal legal proceedings and voluntarily disclosed evidence supporting Mrs J’s claim. This led to a settlement meeting, where negotiations resulted in an agreement to pay £1 million in compensation.

The case was difficult because there was only a narrow window of opportunity for intervention that could have led to a better recovery. The team on the case also assessed the full extent of Mrs J’s claim, including her care needs, loss of earnings and accommodation needs, and submitted details to the Trust.

This helped the Trust understand the full extent of the claim and the impact of Mrs J’s injuries.

Mrs J received £1 million in compensation, bringing her legal claim to a conclusion and securing financial security for herself and her children.

Although compensation can’t return Mrs J to the position she was in before her injuries, the settlement gives her and her family greater financial security for the future.

Mrs J praised the knowledge, professionalism and determination shown throughout her case. She said:

“I would like people who are looking for a solicitor to know how knowledgeable and professional you are and the hard work and determination you have shown to get me the result that has been achieved.”

If you or a loved one has suffered harm following a delay in diagnosis or treatment, understanding your options can be an important first step. Find out how Fletchers can help with medical negligence claims and contact us today.