Patient with Suspected Cauda Equina Syndrome

Cauda equina syndrome is the clinical syndrome seen when there is acute compression of the cauda equina nerve roots and is a rare neurosurgical emergency. The approximate incidence in patients presenting with low back pain is 0.27% but delays in investigation and treatment can result in life-changing permanent disability. The best practice for patients presenting with potential cauda equina syndrome is urgent MRI imaging at the presenting hospital to avoid delays in diagnosis. Patients with a positive finding of cauda equina compression should proceed to decompressive surgery to restore the diameter of the spinal canal urgently to reduce the risk of developing a permanent deficit.

• | Author: Gabriel Metcalf-Cuenca
• | Publisher: Cambridge University Press
• | Publication Date: May 22, 2025
• | Number of Pages: 00026 pages
• | Binding: Paperback or Softback
• | ISBN-10: 1009388703
• | ISBN-13: 9781009388702