Cauda equina syndrome

Question 1

Cauda equine syndrome is compression below the c____ m_____ and is an emergency

Answer 1

conus medullaris

Question 2

What causes cauda equina syndrome?

Answer 2

Lumbar herniation (L4/5 or L5/S1)

Question 3

What are symptoms of cauda equina syndrome?

Answer 3

Leg weakness with LMN signs (ipsilateral hypotonia, fasciculations, hyporeflexia)
Saddle anaesthesia (perianal numbness)
Bladder /bowel dysfunction
Commonly has sphincter involvement

Question 4

How do you diagnose cauda equina syndrome?

Answer 4

MRI cord
Testing nerve roots and reflexes

Question 5

How do you treat cauda equina syndrome?

Answer 5

Neurosurgery ASAP

(eg microdiscectomy, spinal fixation)