102. Accuracy of physical examination on ruling out cauda equina syndrome (CES): is MRI necessary?

Cauda equina syndrome (CES) is defined as the severe compression of the cauda equina resulting in loss of lower sacral nerve root function. There are no studies to date that demonstrate whether physical examination can accurately diagnose CES, therefore providers feel obligated to order magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) studies on patients reporting bowel or bladder dysfunction with associated low back pain to rule out a diagnosis of CES.

Source: The Spine Journal - August 23, 2019 Category: Orthopaedics Authors: Natalie L. Zusman, Stephanie S. Radoslovich, Spencer J. Smith, Kenneth R. Gundle, Jung U. Yoo Source Type: research