Table 2

 Reasons identified for delay in management of cauda equina syndrome

CES, cauda equina syndrome; MRI, magnetic resonance imaging.
Patient-related factors
    Presented too late1
    Complicating medical comorbidity2
Physician-related factors
    CES not considered4
    Referral to inappropriate specialty2
    Inappropriate initial management2
    Inappropriate advice from neurosurgical or orthopaedic team2
Other factors
    No beds in the tertiary centre2
    Mechanical failure of MRI scanner1