Quantifying the clinical aspects of the cauda equina syndrome - The Cauda Scale (TCS).

AIM: To quantify the clinical findings in patients with potential cauda equina syndrome (CES).

METHODS

Three domains were selected: bladder function (B), perianal sensation (S) and anal tone/squeeze (T). A quantified score was given to symptoms and signs in each domain.

RESULTS

The lowest score in each domain and the lowest sum score (the most severe lesion) is 0. The best sum score is 9 (the normal patient).

CONCLUSION

TCS can improve the clinical assessment and management of patients with possible CES and improve communication between the doctors who are called upon to assess and treat such patients.