Cauda Equina Syndrome

Question 1

What nerve are compressed

Answer 1

L2-S4

Question 2

Is cauda equina syndrome chronic or rapid onset?

Answer 2

Rapid
*due to the sudden decrease in spinal canal volume
*muscles are paralyzed due to compression
*bowel and bladder incontinence happen

Question 3

What are the symptoms?

Answer 3

1. Radicular symtpoms
2. Perianal numbness
3. Weakness

Question 4

What PE tests should you conduct?

Answer 4

1. Walk on heels/toes
   *to detect weakness
2. Motor and sensory
3. Sphincter tone
4. Perianal sensation

Question 5

What tests should you order?

Answer 5

1. MRI (confirmation)
2. CT myelogram (confirmation)
3. XRays
4. CBC, CRP, ESR

Question 6

What is the treatment?

Answer 6

1. Surgical emergency
   *need decompression to relieve pressure on the nerve roots