Cauda Equina Syndrome

Question 1

Cauda equina pathophysiology

Answer 1

-collection of nerves at end of spinal cord (lumbar)
-responsible for sending/ receiving messages to lower limbs and pelvic organs
-nerves (L3-L5) become compressed disrupting motor and sensory function to lower extremities and bladder

Question 2

CE red flags

Answer 2

If have lower back/ sciatic pain must ask 2 questions (red flags)
1. Have you been incontinent (bowel or bladder)
2. Do they have saddle anaesthesia? (loss of sensation around the buttocks area

-if yes, surgical emergency, blue light to ED

Question 3

Symptoms

Answer 3

-weakness/ numbness in both legs
-numbness around or under genitals/ anus
-finding hard to pee/ can’t pee/ can’t control pee
-can’t control when poo
-bilateral sciatica

Question 4

Treatment

Answer 4

-CABCD manage
-analgesia if needed- para, ibuprofen, entonox
-convey with pre alert if red flags as surgical emergency