Cauda Equina

Question 1

What is Cauda Equina Syndrome?

Answer 1

Compression of multiple lumbosacral nerve roots below the level of the conus medullaris

Question 2

What causes Cauda Equina Syndrome?

Answer 2

Anything that causes the narrowing of the spinal canal and compresses the nerve roots below the level of the spinal cord .

For example:
Tumours
Spinal Trauma
Lumbar Stenosis

Question 3

Is CES common?

Answer 3

No

Question 4

Why is CES not age specific?

Answer 4

No - Atraumatic CES occurs primarily in adults as a result of surgical morbidity, spinal disk disease, metastatic cancer, or epidural abscess.

Question 5

Clinical presentation of CES:

Answer 5

Low back pain
Sciatica 
Neuromuscular and urogenital symptoms
Decrease in ankle and knee reflexes
Numbness and paraesthesia

Question 6

What would be the best way to diagnose CES?

Answer 6

Aphysical examto assess strength, reflexes, sensation, stability, alignment, and motion.