Prolapse Intervertebral Disc (Slip Disc) with Cauda Equina Syndrome
Published by Dr. Mayur Kardile — Pune Spine Institute
Case Overview
A 32-year-old lady presented with sudden onset severe back pain radiating down to both lower limbs, along with partial loss of bowel and urine control. She had a BMI of 29 kg/m² and weighed 145 kg.
MRI revealed a disc herniation at the L4-5 level with compression of the lower lumbar nerve roots (Cauda Equina).
Cauda Equina Syndrome is a serious condition where compression of lumbar nerve roots leads to loss of control over bowel and urine. It constitutes a surgical emergency — if not treated within 24 hours, the neurological damage can become permanent.
The patient was operated with emergency L4-5 microdiscectomy within 24 hours of presentation. She had excellent recovery from pain, and her control over urine gradually returned over the following weeks.
This case highlights the importance of recognizing Cauda Equina Syndrome and seeking immediate medical attention.
Key Case Highlights
- 132-year-old, 145 kg lady with sudden loss of bowel and bladder control
- 2MRI: L4-5 disc herniation with cauda equina compression
- 3Cauda equina syndrome is a surgical emergency — operated within 24 hours
- 4L4-5 Microdiscectomy performed
- 5Good pain relief and gradual recovery of urinary control
- 6Delay in treatment for cauda equina syndrome can cause permanent damage
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Dr. Mayur Kardile
MS Orth | DNB | MCh (Toronto) | FRCSC
Fellowship-trained spine surgeon from Toronto. Trained in North America with expertise in complex deformity correction, minimally invasive surgery, and revision spine procedures.
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