Pennsylvania Medical Malpractice Claims — Untreated Cauda Equina Syndrome

Back pain is a common patient complaint, and some medical professionals dismiss it rather than conducting a thorough exam and testing. Such lack of attention and care may be considered medical malpractice, particularly when a patient ultimately develops a permanent disability. In the case of untreated or undiagnosed cauda equina syndrome, the result can be loss of bowel and bladder control or even paralysis of the legs.

The Pittsburgh law firm of Biancheria & Maliver P.C. provides aggressive advocacy on behalf of medical malpractice victims and their families. With a legal team led by attorney and board-certified physician Deborah Maliver, the firm is able to provide a virtually unmatched level of knowledge, skill and thoroughness. To schedule a free assessment and evaluation of your situation, contact Biancheria & Maliver today.

Failure to Diagnose or Provide Proper Treatment for Cauda Equina Back Pain

The cauda equina is a bundle of nerves located at the base of the spine. When it is compressed, severe pain in the lower back and buttocks and down the back of the legs (sciatica) can occur. As time passes, symptoms may grow to include loss of sensitivity or numbness in the groin, incontinence and muscle weakness in the legs.

Cauda equina syndrome can result from a number of causes, including:

• Herniated discs
• Spinal stenosis
• Metastatic tumors
• Meningiomas
• Neoplasms
• Cancer
• Infection
• Spinal bleeding
• Surgical errors

If allowed to remain untreated, the compressed nerves can sustain damage or nerve death. When this occurs, cauda equina syndrome can lead to permanent disability or even death.

Physicians are trained to recognize symptoms of cauda equina syndrome, and medical protocols indicate that certain tests should be conducted and treatments prescribed. With a swift and accurate diagnosis, full recovery is possible. When medical professionals fail to follow protocols and training, the resulting misdiagnosis, delay in diagnosis, or failure to diagnose the syndrome at all can be life-altering.

Contact Us for a Complimentary Case Evaluation

At Biancheria & Maliver, we believe that too many patient disabilities and deaths result from medical negligence and indifference. The firm is dedicated to holding medical professionals accountable for their malpractice. Contact a lawyer at Biancheria & Maliver for a free case assessment and evaluation.