Study aim
Looking at whether the signs and symptoms that patients have can be used to predict which patients have cauda equina compression on MRI
Inclusion Criteria
- Aged 18 years or over
- They have a suspected diagnosis of cauda equina syndrome, defined by a clinician who routinely assesses such patients and considers it appropriate to organise an MRI to confirm or exclude this diagnosis
- They are willing and able to give informed consent
Exclusion Criteria
- The MRI scan for suspected cauda equina compression had been undertaken before the clinical assessment
- There is a suspected spinal fracture
- There is evidence that the patient will be unable to adhere to trial procedures or participate in follow-up, including life expectancy of less than 12 months
Enrollment conflicts
- None
Step-by-step recruitment guide
Standard working hours (09:00 – 17:00)
1
Contact the ED Research Team when an eligible patient arrives in the ED — send a message via Epic chat to "ED Research Team" or phone 217907.
2
The ED Research Team will see the patient to arrange consent and randomisation.
Out of hours & weekends
X
The trial is currently only recruiting within the working hours of the research Team
