Orthopedic Surgery Expert Evaluates Delayed Diagnosis of Cauda Equina

Case Overview

This case involves a middle aged man who was diagnosed with cauda equina syndrome. The Plaintiff had a history of chronic back pain, and during a visit to his primary care doctor he received a referral to an orthopedic spine surgeon for evaluation and possible treatment. After seeing the Plaintiff, the orthopedic surgeon recommended surgery to relieve pressure on the Plaintiff’s spinal cord, which was then performed without complications. Some time after the procedure, the Plaintiff sat down while at home and immediately experienced extreme pain as well as a progressive numbness in his legs. After contacting his orthopedic surgeon, the Plaintiff was told that the issue was likely caused by swelling from the surgery, and he was instructed to call back later if his symptoms did not subside. Some time later, the Plaintiff noted that the pain and numbness had continued, and that he would need a refill of his painkillers. During this second call, the Plaintiff also noted that he was having difficulty voiding his bowels and bladder. Despite these complaints, the orthopedic surgeon continued to insist that the cause was residual swelling from the surgery. Later, the Plaintiff was diagnosed with cauda equina by a second doctor, which caused a permanent loss of function and sensation in his lower body.