Quick answers
This page explains the evidence needed in cauda equina claims. It is general information only.
The symptom timeline
The patient timeline is crucial. It should record when back pain, leg pain, numbness, saddle or perineal symptoms, bladder changes, bowel changes, sexual dysfunction or weakness started and changed.
Clinical records
GP, NHS 111, ambulance, A&E, physiotherapy and hospital records may show what symptoms were reported, what questions were asked, what examination was performed and what safety-netting was given.
Imaging and surgery records
MRI request, scan time, report time, neurosurgical referral, transfer, theatre timing and operation notes help reconstruct whether urgent assessment and treatment were delayed.
Expert evidence
Independent expert evidence is needed to address breach of duty and causation. It is not enough to show that cauda equina occurred; the claim must show that competent care would probably have produced a better outcome.
Long-term evidence
Urology, bowel, sexual function, pain, mobility, care, employment and psychological evidence may be needed to understand consequences and compensation.
Sources used
This page is informed by NICE suspected neurological conditions referral guidance and NHS hospital cauda equina patient information. See NICE: Suspected neurological conditions.