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Conditions

Spine surgery · Spine and nerves

Cauda equina syndrome

Recognise rare but urgent compression of lumbar nerves controlling the legs and pelvic organs.

Editorial publication · Medical review pending.

Understand

Cauda equina syndrome is compression of nerve roots at the lower end of the spinal canal and is a spinal emergency.

Possible symptoms

It often combines back or leg pain with a new change in urination, bowel function, sexual function or sensation between the legs.

Causes and associated factors

A large herniated disc is a common cause; stenosis, tumour, infection, bleeding or trauma are other possibilities.

Diagnosis

Any suggestive combination needs immediate neurological assessment; no single symptom can confirm or rule it out.

Tests

Urgent MRI looks for compression and its level; bladder and neurological function are also assessed.

Course of the condition

Without rapid treatment, permanent bladder, bowel, sexual or motor problems may remain.

Care options

When compression is confirmed, urgent surgical decompression is usually arranged with bladder, bowel, mobility and rehabilitation follow-up.

When to consult

Do not wait for a routine appointment if new warning signs develop with back or leg pain.

Urgent help

Go to emergency care immediately for new difficulty starting or controlling urination, loss of bowel control, saddle numbness, new sexual dysfunction, or severe pain or weakness in both legs.

Questions for your doctor

  • Which spinal structure explains my symptoms?
  • Which tests are actually useful?
  • Which non-surgical options can we try?
  • When would an operation be discussed?
  • Which neurological signs require emergency care?

Continue reading

A procedure linked to a condition does not establish an indication for your individual situation.

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