Please help me with my MRI results
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I have been suffering with ongoing back problems for over 8 years. I tried all conventional treatments such as cortisone shots, therapy, ect. I just got my newest MRI and am confused as to what the impressions are. If anyone may be of some help, Id greatly appreciate it. My spine Dr. appointment isnt for two more weeks and Im going crazy. When he ordered these MRIs, he said he is probably leaning toward surgery for me, but I am only 32. This scares me so much.
Lumbar:
T11-T12: Intervertebral disc desiccation. Small broad-based right Intervertebral disc herniation resulting in mild mass effect right ventral thecal sac.
L4-L5: Intervertebral disc desiccation.
L5-S1: Intervertebral disc desiccation. Small broad based slightly eccentric to left Intervertebral disc protrusion abutting the left S1 nerve root. Minimal bilateral neural foraminal narrowing.
Cervical;
C3-C4: minimal Intervertebral disc bulge
C5-C6: Minimal vertebral disc bulge
C6-C7: minimal vertebral disc bulge.
If anyone can help me with these results, id greatly appreciate it. My lower back and middle back hurt so very bad. Sometimes the sciatic pain drops me to the ground. My left arm gets sharp pain down it sometimes as well. Thank you for any help.
0 likes, 3 replies
CHICO_MARX amanda_06111
Posted
Not docs on here but...
The desiccation is the drying out of the disc which then becomes hard and calcified. At 70, I'm very familiar with this. It happens over time...no one is immune...when you start getting it probably depends a lot on genetics (if there's no trauma involved). You've already gone through a lot of the standard modalities; surgery is the end of the line...
Since they discovered an impact on a nerve root (that resulted in sciatica for me) and foraminal narrowing (that resulted in stenosis for me), those are probably surgical candidates...again, like they did for me. The question is: Where is your pain coming from? The cervical bulges may be insignificant if they are not pressing on any nerves...could be significant if they are. Simple decompressive laminectomy? Sounds like your pain is originating from the lower lumbar region but, again, you need a neurosurgeon to tell you what's going on.
Note: An MRI is fine but a CT/Myelogram with contrast is the definitive, "gold standard" test for spinal problems. Any good surgeon will want one in a complicated case to make sure they are addressing the correct part of your spine.
The lumbar issues may require fusions, maybe L4 to S1. For a TLIF, they go through your back. Rails and screws, multi-day hospital stay, rehab work and a brace. An LLIF fusion (they go in through your side) CAN be done on two levels (L4/L5 and L5/S1) in one procedure. Here, they insert a device that looks like a mini-car jack and expand it to decompress the foraminal canals. Combine that with a laminectomy to eliminate the nerve impingement and you should be fine. The LLIF is a one-night stay, no rehab, no brace. Excellent op.
I would see multiple neurosurgeons to find the right one with the right technique to solve the problem.
nelly22341 amanda_06111
Posted
Hi Amanda
I'm surprised they sent you the results before you saw your docter and considering most people can't read their results. I would call your docter and tell him you need an appointment ASAP for your piece of mind.
Hawk15 amanda_06111
Posted
Chico is right on here! The cervical area probably ok for now. Nerve root l5& S1 needs surgery. Neurosurgeon will go after this first and look at other problems once he is in. Don't be afraid you are young and have an excellent chance to recover well. Make sure you are dedicated to recovery and rehab! Good luck and we are here for you.