Dr Anthony Chau, Neurosurgeon, Joondalup & Subiaco
Cauda equina syndrome (CES) is a rare but important surgical emergency caused by pathology – most commonly a compressive disc herniation – of multiple lumbosacral nerve roots.
Difficulties in diagnosis can be related to the heterogeneity of its presentation, and the multitude of definitions in the published literature. Additionally, the challenge in general practice is recognising the possibility of CES amongst the high volume of patients presenting with common back pain and lumbar radiculopathy. CES occurs in only 0.1% of lumbar disc prolapses.
CES is best thought of as...
Cauda equina syndrome (CES) is a rare but important surgical emergency caused by pathology – most commonly a compressive disc herniation – of multiple lumbosacral nerve roots.
Difficulties in diagnosis can be related to the heterogeneity of its presentation, and the multitude of definitions in the published literature. Additionally, the challenge in general practice is recognising the possibility of CES amongst the high volume of patients presenting with common back pain and lumbar radiculopathy. CES occurs in only 0.1% of lumbar disc prolapses.
CES is best thought of as...
This content is restricted to Medical Forum readers; this is a new feature. If you haven’t registered with our site in the last few weeks, please create a new account below. If you have subscribed, please log in.