Former vet receives over £3,000,000 for delayed diagnosis of Cauda Equina syndrome

Our client was an established vet when he developed symptoms of cauda equina syndrome. Despite making determined efforts to rebuild his life after emergency surgery, he was ultimately unable to continue working in the profession he had trained for and built his career around.

Cauda equina syndrome is a serious condition that affects the nerves at the base of the spine. It can cause long-term problems with mobility, bladder and bowel function, and chronic pain.

The condition continues to affect many aspects of our client’s life. He lives with neuropathic pain, bowel and bladder dysfunction, weakness in his lower limbs, reduced muscle tone and joint pain. He also requires ongoing medical appointments and specialist equipment to support his daily life. These challenges meant he could not continue working as a vet and needed to explore an alternative career path.

Following a claim pursued by Sarah Stanton, our client secured compensation of more than £3 million. The settlement recognised the long-term impact of his injuries and will help cover the cost of ongoing medical care, specialist equipment and the support he needs to pursue a new career. 

Our client had a history of back pain and was already waiting for an MRI scan when he attended A&E with interrupted urine flow and abnormal sensations when urinating.

As a vet, he recognised the potential signs of cauda equina syndrome and raised these concerns with the medical professionals treating him. Although he was examined, he was discharged home because he was already awaiting an MRI scan.

Two days after attending hospital, our client returned to A&E suffering from severe leg pain and muscle spasms that left him unable to move.

He was then diagnosed with cauda equina syndrome and referred for emergency surgery.

Although surgery took place once the condition was identified, our client faced a long recovery and spent much of the following year rebuilding his life after the diagnosis.

After his recovery, our client moved abroad and attempted to resume his career as a vet. Despite his determination, he was unable to continue working in the profession and eventually had to give up his practice.

The effects of cauda equina syndrome continue to shape his daily life. Alongside ongoing physical symptoms, he will require continued medical support and equipment to help him manage the condition.

Sarah Stanton represented our client throughout his clinical negligence claim and secured compensation of more than £3 million.

The settlement recognised the significant impact the delayed diagnosis had on his health, career and future, while helping him access the support he will continue to need.

Client comment

“A legal case is always a daunting consideration but Sarah made it as bearable as it possibly could have been. This was done in the first instance with honesty about what would come and an intimate understanding of the negligence that I had suffered.

As time went on she displayed an incredible knowledge of the process and most importantly showed true empathy. Every effort was made at every instance to minimise the impact on my life and well being and to top it all off the case concluded with the best possible outcome, surpassing any previous expectations.

My unending thanks and gratitude to Sarah and all.”

A comment from their solicitor

“We are delighted to have been able to assist our client in bringing his clinical negligence claim to a successful conclusion. Cauda equina syndrome is a devastating condition which affects daily living in many different ways. Our client is an extraordinarily resourceful and determined individual, and it is a testament to his tenacity and courage that he has been able to rebuild his life following this. We hope the financial settlement will allow him to move forward with his life and put this behind him.”

Sarah Stanton
Clinical Negligence Partner, Fletchers