Cauda equina March 2018 | by EMauthor •Cauda Equina syndrome is an orthopaedic emergency as urgent decompression is needed •It is caused by central disc prolapse with compression of the whole cauda equina •Clinical features include oBilateral sciatica, this may not be very prominent at presentation oSaddle anaesthesia ( S2-S4 ) distribution oBladder dysfunction, retention with overflow incontinence oLoss of anal tone •Urgent orthopaedic referral is needed, whoever is contactable Key point: Always inquire about bowel and bladder function in patients with back pain. Always look for saddle anaesthesia and perform rectal examination in patient with back pain |
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