Dr. John D. Lipani offers treatment for cauda equina syndrome. As a board-certified, fellowship-trained neurosurgeon, Dr. Lipani provides state-of-the-art neurosurgery in New Jersey. Cauda equina syndrome is an uncommon compression of the nerves at the end of the spinal cord within the spinal canal. Cauda equina syndrome can be caused by any condition that results in direct irritation or pinching of the nerves at the end of the spinal cord, as well as any trauma or large disc herniation in the lumbar spine. Neurosurgeon-in-chief Dr. Lipani emphasizes that cauda equina syndrome is a neurological emergency that requires immediate attention. Sudden numbness and weakness in the legs, numbness in the groin region, and inability to empty the bladder are symptoms of cauda equina syndrome that require immediate evaluation.
Cauda equina syndrome compresses the nerves at the end of the spinal cord, which can result in serious complications. The compression leads to decreased sensation below the waist and may hinder bladder and bowel function. If left untreated, people can become paralyzed without sensation below the waist. Other causes of cauda equina syndrome include spinal tumors, severe lumbar spine injury and birth defects. Cauda equina syndrome symptoms include the following:
Cauda equina syndrome treatment is urgent because permanent paralysis may quickly occur. If infection is present, antibiotics are given, usually intravenously in addition to surgical intervention. Cauda equina syndrome treatment is determined by what is causing the compression of the spinal cord nerves. If a tumor is responsible, surgical decompression and radiotherapy or chemotherapy may be required. Otherwise, operative intervention with surgical decompression is the standard treatment for cauda equina syndrome.
For more information about cauda equina syndrome or our cauda equina syndrome treatment, contact the office of Dr. John D. Lipani at (609)-890-3400 today!
