cauda equina syndrome

Question 1

what is cauda equina syndrome?

Answer 1

-when a disc prolapse compress all the nerve roots of the causa equina

Question 2

what is the cauda equina?

Answer 2

-a collection of nerve roots that travel through the spinal canal after the spinal cord terminates L2/L3. The spinal cord tapers down at the end in a section called the conas medullaris

Question 3

what do the cauda equina nerves provide sensation to?

Answer 3

• perineum (gooch)
• bladder
• rectum

Question 4

what do the cauda equina nervers supply motor innervation to?

Answer 4

• lower limbs

- anal and urethra sphincters

Question 5

what do the cauda equina nerves provide parasympathetic innervation to?

Answer 5

bladder and rectum

Question 6

what are some causes for cauda equina syndrome?

Answer 6

• herniated disc (most common)
• tumours
• spondylolisthesis (anterior displacement of a vertebra out of line with the one below)
• abcess
• truama

Question 7

what are red flags for cauda equina syndrome?

Answer 7

• saddle anaesthesia (loss of sensation in the perineum)
• loss of sensation in the bladder and rectum (not knowing they are full)
• faecal incontinence
• bilateral sciatica
• bilateral or severe motor weakness in legs
• reduced anal tone on PR exam

Question 8

what investigations are done for suspected cauda equina syndrome?

Answer 8

• PR exam is mandatory

- urgent MRI

Question 9

what treatment is done for cauda equina syndrome?

Answer 9

emergency decompression surgery