“I have more scientific publications on the subject of cauda equina syndrome than any other author in the world.” 71 LAWYER MONTHLY EXPERT WITNESS AWARDS 2025 clinical assessment, imaging, investigations, management, and outcomes in CES, as well as audits of medicolegal CES cases. I also have a strong interest in spinal injury. I was the lead neurosurgeon for the NICE trauma guidelines, including the 2016 guidelines on the management of acute spinal injury. I have several academic publications related to spinal injury, including a review of secondary neurological deterioration in medicolegal spinal injury cases—the most common cause being failure to immobilise the spine. Additionally, I have specialist interests in spinal infection and spinal epidural abscess and have published extensively in these areas. The Essential Elements of a Good Report At the outset, the report should explain why you are an appropriate expert for the case, using a concise mini-CV. Judges do not have time to search through a full CV to assess your credentials. I have prepared mini-CVs for each of my specialist areas, including cauda equina syndrome, spinal cord injury, traumatic head injury, brain and spinal infection, spinal vascular anomalies, subarachnoid haemorrhage, and informed consent. The mini-CV should be placed at the front of the report, just before the introduction, so the Judge can quickly verify your expertise. The facts of the case should be presented clearly, with any conflicts in evidence highlighted. Begin with a summary so the issues in the case are immediately apparent. Some facts must be assumed to be correct, but you should clearly state that evidence is a matter for the Court, to whom you defer. Avoid technical jargon or explain it using footnotes or a glossary. Make life easy for the Judge. Set out the legal tests you apply: e.g., “The reasonable and responsible neurosurgeon would...” or “On balance, the outcome with surgery would have been...”. The Civil Procedure Rules require that any range of expert opinion be acknowledged. Clearly state where your opinion lies within that range and explain why. Above all, demonstrate impartiality, be measured, and explain your reasoning with reference to the medical literature. Other Interests I was previously an offshore yachtsman and a power pilot. I am currently training as a glider pilot. Professor Nicholas Vyner Todd Consultant Neurosurgeon & Spinal Surgeon PO Box 682, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE5 9ED Email: mrnvtodd@nicktoddoffice.co.uk Tel: 0191 230 5927 www.nicktoddweb.co.uk
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