Cauda Equina Flashcards
1
Q
What is cauda equina?
A
Compression of the cauda equina (bundle of nerves) leads to either prolapsed disc or malignant spinal cord compression
2
Q
Red flags
A
Loss of sphincter tone
Altered S4 dermatome
Bladder/urine retention changes
Disturbed gait
Paraesthesia- P+N
Sexual dysfunction- pain, erectile dysfunction
3
Q
What to do if cauda equina is suspected
A
Refer immediately
Require an emergency MRI- results of this may lead to surgical decompression
4
Q
Which nerve roots can be affected by cauda equina?
A
L5-S5
Commonly S1 or S4
