Table 1.

Comprehensive classification of cauda equina syndrome

Name	Abbreviation	Definition
Suspected CES	CESS	No bladder/bowel/genital/perineal symptoms, but bilateral sciatica or motor/sensory loss in legs. (this is clinical CESS) Or known large disc herniation on existing MRI (this is radiological CESS)
Symptom-only CES (early CES)	CESE	Normal bladder, bowel and sexual function but some sensory loss in perineum or change in micturition frequency
Incomplete CES	CESI	Alteration in bladder/urethral sensation or function, but maintenance of executive bladder control. + / − perineal sensory changes, or sexual or bowel sensory or functional changes
CES with retention	CESR	As in 3 but with painless bladder retention and overflow
Complete CES	CESC	Insensate bladder with overflow incontinence, no perineal perianal or sexual sensation, no anal tone