Cauda Equina Syndrome Settlement

Image from AAOS.

Settlement 2022

Cauda Equina Syndrome

The cauda equina is a bundle of nerve roots at the lower end of the spinal cord. Just like with the spinal cord, damage or disruption can lead to paralysis.

My client underwent a laminectomy procedure in 2019. In a laminectomy, the surgeon removes parts of certain bones in the spine to alleviate stenosis—a narrowing and pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. Afterward, my client developed a hematoma, which is swelling of clotted blood. The hematoma compressed his cauda equina nerve bundle and led to progressive numbness and weakness. This is called cauda equina syndrome.

Medical Malpractice Lawsuit - DELAYED TREATMENT OF HEMATOMA

In this medical malpractice lawsuit against a Seattle hospital, we alleged that an unreasonable delay in decompressing the hematoma created additional injury, including lower body dysfunction such as localized paralysis and weakness. Earlier treatment is preferred in treating this type of hematoma, because it gives the patient the best chance of a full recovery, or at least the best possible recovery.

The case settled for $1,000,000.