Spinal Cord Series and Cases, 2016 · DOI: 10.1038/scsandc.2016.27 · Published: November 10, 2016
Cauda Equina Syndrome (CES) happens when the bundle of nerves at the bottom of the spinal cord is damaged. This can cause problems with moving and feeling in the legs, as well as bladder and bowel control. This case study reports on a 24-year-old who suffered a complete CES due to a broken bone in his lower back (L3 fracture) from a road accident. He was unable to move his legs or control his bladder or bowels. The patient had surgery within 12 hours of the accident to fix the fracture and relieve pressure on the nerves. Surprisingly, he made a full recovery and regained normal function.
This case suggests that early surgical intervention should be considered even in cases of complete CES, as it may lead to unexpectedly positive outcomes.
Highlights the potential importance of timely surgical decompression in traumatic CES to maximize the chances of neurological recovery.
Emphasizes the role of specialist neurorehabilitation in facilitating functional recovery after surgical intervention for CES.