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Posted 5/30/2014 11:42 PM (GMT 0)
I haven't been to the doctor yet, just have a copy of the report. My appt is Monday to see what direction I will go. I am going to share results from my last few mri's as they vary and I am confused. I guess since different radiologists read them, they see it differently??


MRI 05/29/14 (will shorten it down some)
At L4 L5 there is a concentric disc bulge of approx 10%. There is bilateral facet hypertrophy and sclerosis present at this level. This does not produce significant narrowing of the spinal canal or bony neural foramina.

At L5 S1 there is 7 % central disc bulge present. The spinal canal and bony neural foramina are widely patent.

Impression: Minimal disc desiccation and bulge as described above. NO significant canal or neural foraminal narrowing evident.


MRI 02/08/13:
Mild anterolisthesis of L4 L5. Mild DDD @ L4L5 with mild broad disc bulge.
Impression: Interval surgery on the right side at L4L5. Stable DDD and slight anterolisthesis of L4L5 with no disc herniation or significant spinal stenosis at any level.

MRI 07/09/12
L4L5 Minimal lateral disc bulge components are present that in combination with facet hypertrophy results in minimal right and mild left neural foraminal narrowing but no canal stenosis.
Impression: Minimal right and mild left neutral foraminal narrowing at L4L5 due to combination of minimal lateral disc bulge components and mild facet degenerative hypertrophy. No clear root displacement.

Sorry this is so long but wanted input on why they seem a little different. The one yesterday was at a different facility. The later 2 are close because they are at same place.

I have taken a total 360 in past few months. Making a day of work is about my limit. I feel like something must be pressing on nerve. The report did not give a clear picture of that.

I just want relief. This has been going on too long for me. I want it fixed. Hopefully it is fixable. If not, I will go back to whatever it takes to manage this pain.

Any input or suggestions are always greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance.
Posted 5/31/2014 1:24 AM (GMT 0)
bigecase,

Please keep in mind, though, that is only my personal experience. I am not an expert. Your surgeon is the best person to answer your questions. :)

Part of what determines what the radiologist puts in his report is the diagnosis on the script your doctor sent for the MRI. Also, I know it's different when they have a prior report to compare to. In that case, sometimes they only mark the changes from the prior report & it's assumed that the rest of the stuff stayed the same.

Nerve impingement often doesn't show up on radiological exams. Doesn't mean they can't treat your pain. When I just had pain at a couple of levels, my PM did rhizotomies & each time it brought my pain level WAY down for several years.
Posted 5/31/2014 3:25 AM (GMT 0)
One and three read pretty much the same so I imagine the radiologist reading is listing anything new since the last one was done. This is the reason its critical to obtain copies of all scans in the event you ever see a Dr that's new to your case.
Posted 5/31/2014 12:14 PM (GMT 0)
Vickie, The one done on 05/29/14 did not have previous reports. That is why I found it strange to be so different. You are so right about obtaining all medical reports.

In looking at these reports, they are really not as bad as they could be. I mean I am not sure about some of the larger words they use.

I would think I have nerve impingement as the pain is so severe down buttock, back of leg, calf, ankle, foot and toes. Numbess and tingling. After work all day (with a break to lay down at lunch) all I can do is hit the bed. Can't sit any longer in the evening.

I hate to complain because there are so many on here so much worse. But the pain is real and it is a struggle. This is the best place to let it out. Glad I found it.

Thanks for the responses.
Posted 5/31/2014 3:23 PM (GMT 0)
I am no help when it comes to understanding or trying to read these MRI reports. I totally feel for you though on the pain and not having complete answers on whats going on and just wanting to get rid of the pain. I will keep reading your posts and really hope you not only find results but also can reduce some pain!
Posted 5/31/2014 3:39 PM (GMT 0)
I have never seen an MRI report like this one using a percentage. Usually they measure the size of the disc bulge in millimeters. I suggest you check out www.SpineUniverse.com. & you can learn a lot there about the spine & it may help you understand the MRI better.

Pinched nerves do not always show up on these MRI's so don't let that bother you. You describe someone with a pinched/compressed nerve to the letter.

Never compare your pain to anyone here because pain is just that. It does not matter who has less or more wrong with them, no contest going on in that area. Pain just stinks no matter what.

Keep us posted.
Posted 5/31/2014 4:13 PM (GMT 0)
Everyone's words are so encouraging! I feel for y'all the same you do for me. I pray that you peace each day as I know your struggles. Have never met anyone on here but feel like we are friends for life as we have much in common. Have a great weekend!
Posted 5/31/2014 4:32 PM (GMT 0)
Thank you bigecase!!
Posted 10/7/2014 2:58 AM (GMT 0)
I am suffering from a compressed nerve at L5. MRI shows nothing. I was told I was not a candidate for surgery by a neurologist. He told me to do yoga and meditation. I'm going to Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center soon. So much pain but nothing can be done???? Can a MRI be wrong??
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