Cauda equina syndrome develops when the lumbar spine's nerve roots get crushed, cutting off sensation and movement. Nerve roots that regulate bladder and bowel function are particularly prone to injury.
CES arises when the nerves beneath the spinal cord get squeezed, compromising the bladder and intestines. Lumbar disc prolapse is the most prevalent cause of CES, however other disorders such as metastatic spinal cord compression can also induce CES.
Causes
Tumors and spinal lesions
Infections or inflammation of the spine
Lumbar spinal stenosis
Lower back injuries that are violent (gunshots, falls, auto accidents)
Anomalies in birth
Arteriovenous malformations of the spine (AVMs)
Hemorrhages in the spine (subarachnoid, subdural, epidural)
Complications of lumbar spine surgery after surgery
Anesthesia for the spine
Signs and Symptoms
Some or all of these "red flag" symptoms may be experienced by CES patients.
The most frequent symptom is urinary retention. The patient's bladder fills up with pee, but he or she does not have the typical feeling or need to urinate.
Incontinence, either urinary or fecal. Urine incontinence can occur as a result of an overfull bladder. Stool incontinence can arise as a result of anal sphincter dysfunction.
"Saddle anesthesia" is a sensory problem that can affect the anus, genitals, and buttocks.
Usually, there is weakness or paralysis of more than one nerve root. The lower extremities may be affected by weakness.
Backache and/or leg cramps (also known as sciatica).
Sexual impotence
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