Table of Contents
What is cauda equina lesion?
Cauda equina syndrome occurs when the nerve roots in the lumbar spine are compressed, cutting off sensation and movement. Nerve roots that control the function of the bladder and bowel are especially vulnerable to damage.
Where does cauda equina usually occur?
The cauda equina is the sack of nerve roots (nerves that leave the spinal cord between spaces in the bones of the spine to connect to other parts of the body) at the lower end of the spinal cord. These nerve roots provide the ability to move and feel sensation in the legs and the bladder.
Can cauda equina be treated without surgery?
Therefore cauda equina syndrome must be treated with surgical decompression. If you have cauda equina syndrome, you will need an operation. Cauda equina syndrome cannot be resolved without surgery.
Can cauda equina be cured?
Cauda equina syndrome is best treated with decompression by a lumbar laminectomy, but a lumbar microdiscectomy may be used given a patient’s unique situation. The patient will likely be kept in the hospital for a few days following the surgery to monitor recovery of motor and sensory function.
How painful is cauda equina syndrome?
Sharp or stabbing pain in the legs or lower extremities. Compression of the cauda equina may lead to sciatic nerve pain felt on both sides of the body, and may be experienced as a sharp, hot pain felt down the backs of the thighs and possibly into the lower legs and feet.
Is cauda equina syndrome life threatening?
Cauda equina syndrome is not life-threatening. But it can permanently damage your body, affecting your health and quality of life. Symptoms may include leaking pee or poop and problems having sex. Surgery might treat several of the symptoms if performed immediately.
Does cauda equina always need surgery?
Cauda equina syndrome requires emergency hospital admission and may require emergency surgery, because the longer it goes untreated, the greater the chance it will lead to permanent paralysis and incontinence.
Can cauda equina be cured without surgery?
If doctors recommend conservative management, the level of care will be wholly inappropriate. Therefore cauda equina syndrome must be treated with surgical decompression. If you have cauda equina syndrome, you will need an operation. Cauda equina syndrome cannot be resolved without surgery.