AUDIT
Cauda Equina Syndrome Timeliness
Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust
2023
Orthopaedics
ratings
Background
Delays in MRI and decompression for suspected cauda equina syndrome markedly worsen neurological recovery; current practice at GSTT shows wide variation in scan timing and urgent management pathways
Aims
To reduce MRI and management delays for suspected CES at GSTT, achieving faster diagnosis and treatment within the audit cycle.
Objectives
Current-state audit: Review all suspected CES presentations from 5 October to 31 December 2023 for intervals: presentation→MRI and MRI→decompression.
Reporting: Present baseline data to stakeholders by end of February 2024.
Fast-track protocol: Launch an ED-to-MRI fast-track referral pathway by month 3.
Timeliness target: Achieve a 20% reduction in mean time to MRI within 6 months of protocol introduction.
6-hour benchmark: Ensure MRI is performed within 6 hours for ≥80% of suspected CES cases by month 12
Keywords
Cauda equina syndrome
MRI timeliness
CES audit
Spinal emergency care
Fast-track protocol
Orthopaedic neurosurgery
Clinical audit
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