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View Full Version : Help new MRI & possible paralization??


Wildflr
08-08-2007, 01:23 PM
Hi All, I just got the results of a new MRI, and my PCP now wants me to see yet another Surgeon. I was so upset that I forgot to ask which level he is concerned about. I am going to post the two levels that I think might be the concern but would Like help from the board members. The first area is the L3-4 Diffuse disc bulge and associated spurring with associated underlying ligamentum flavum and facet hypertrophy. as well as epidural lipomatosis all culminating in severe central stenosis and moderate right and mild left neural foraminal encroachment.
L5-S1 Diffuse disc buldge and associated spurring indenting the thecal sac resulting in mild central stenosis. Moderate right and moderate to severe left neural foraminal encroachment present. There is possible compression of the exiting nerve root on the left side.

IMPRESSION
1. Advanced multilevel degenerative disc disease with associated multifocal central canal stenosis noted to be most prominent at the L3-4 level, as well as neural foraminal encroachment most prominent at the L5-S1 level where there is concern for associated impingement of the exiting nerve root secondary to right paracentral disc protrusion at the L4-5 level.
After reading the report he said I am not one to send patients to surgery for pain control but this could cause paralization. I have been to many neurosurgeons and ortho surgeons and all have said I am not a candidate for surgery because of so many levels of problems. But I sure don't want to end up paralized. What are your thoughts on this. Appreciate any replys.
Wildflr

Mark N
08-08-2007, 01:47 PM
wildflr, I am sorry you are in so much pain and it really gets our attention when we are going through it. Your previous doctors explanation of too many levels is not born out by your MRI. It isn't unusual for surgeons to deal with two levels so maybe they were saying there was so much going on with the two levels? It certainly seems like you need to keep looking for a spinal surgeon with experience that can help you. Your MRI is showing serious problems that explains your pain but doesn't indicate paralysis as an imminent problem.

What area are you from, the reason I ask is because people here can suggest doctors for you to see that could offer you a better solution. I hope you can find a doctor that will be able to help you.

Maggie
08-08-2007, 10:29 PM
I agree with Mark, that the possibility of paralysis is not as big a concern as maybe Cauda Equina might be. Multi layers of fusion can be performed in cases like yours. Push that surgeon for some details and risks associated with this problem.