Cauda Equina Syndrome is a rare, but very serious condition affecting body areas such as the spine. The American Association of Neurological Surgeons (AANS) defines this syndrome as “occurring when the nerve roots of the cauda equina are compressed and disrupt motor and sensory function to the lower extremities and bladder.”
Patients need to be treated quickly as Cauda Equina Syndrome is considered to be an urgent/emergency medical occurrence.
What are the symptoms?
According to the AANS, common symptoms of Cauda Equina Syndrome include:
- Severe low back pain
- Motor weakness, sensory loss, or pain in one, or more commonly both legs
- Saddle anesthesia, defined as unable to feel anything in the body areas that sit on a saddle
- Recent onset of bladder dysfunction such as urinary retention or incontinence
- Recent onset of bowel incontinence
- Sensory abnormalities in the bladder or rectum
- Recent onset of sexual dysfunction
- A loss of reflexes in the extremities
Diagnostic imaging often plays a critical and crucial role in confirming the diagnosis of Cauda Equina Syndrome. Studies such as Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) are often recommended by physicians in order to examine the spine, including nerve roots and surrounding anatomical areas.
Capitol Imaging Services offers an extensive portfolio of MRI systems that meet the needs of this type of testing. Our open MRI, 1.5T high field MRI and 3T ultra-high field MRI scanners are often the technology of choice for area physicians, including neurologists and neurosurgeons. It’s important, as a patient, to select quality technology for your MRI. All Capitol Imaging Services facilities are accredited in MRI by the American College of Radiology, meeting or exceeding standards set for quality, technology, reporting and expertise.
Capitol Imaging Services has provided an excellent outpatient testing environment for people in the southeastern United States for nearly 50 years. Call us to schedule a visit.
Or, click here to send us a secure email requesting assistance. One of our experienced call center associates will contact you to set your appointment.
