Cauda Equina Syndrome refers to the group of nerve fibers formed by five fibers, each from the lumbar and sacrum and one tissue from the coccygeal nerve. The name was coined from its similarity with the tail of a horse. The primary purpose of such structure is to provide a pathway for the impulses from the lower extremities to the essential organs of the genitourinary, lower gastrointestinal tract, and the reproductive system.
The Cauda Equina Syndrome occurs when these nerves are subjected to extreme pressure that impinges the network of fibers brought about by the destruction of the lumbar area secondary to trauma, presence of mass, or narrowing of the vertebral canal secondary to infection. Cauda equine is an essential structure since any abnormality that occurs and affects this structure can result in dysfunction of urination and passing out of the stool, among others.