cauda equina syndrome Flashcards
1
Q
defintion
A
a large disc prolapse compresses all nerve roots of the cauda equina (L2-S5)
2
Q
what is caudal equine syndrome
A
A SURGICAL EMERGENCY
3
Q
Symtoms
A
- bilateral sharp leg pain which extends past the knee
- saddle paraesthesia/ anaesthesia
- painless urinary retention with overflow and inability to control defecation
4
Q
even if there is only a slight clinical suspicion what should you do
A
PR exam and MRI
5
Q
management
A
emergency surgical discectomy
6
Q
What happens if you don’t do a PR exam
A
this is negligence and person will require and colostomy bad and urinary diversion due to permanent nerve damage to the sacral nerves
