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Posted 10/17/2013 6:21 PM (GMT 0)
Thought I would post a quick update, and ask if any one has opinion on my MRI results.
I am sill waiting to get into NorthWestern as they need to read my MRI and then call me to schedule appointment.Usually takes two weeks after the read it for them to schedule.
My regular Dr called me with results, and said by the look of the MRI was wondering how I was able to stand the pain. I reminded myself that he is not a pain specialist or a neurosurgeon. Below are the remarks on MRI that stand out. If anyone is familiar with any of it, I would appreciate if you could share.
*Modic degenerative changes type I present at L1-L2, L2-L3 and L2-L4.
*Bone marrow demonstrates degenerative changes with disc narrowing at L3-L4 through L5-S1.
*L3-L4 diffuse disc bulge.
*Bilateral neural foramina encroachment at L3-L4, L4-L5 and L5-S1.
*Intervertebral disc desiccation at L3-L4 trhough L5-S1.
Of course shows my lumbar fusions of L1-L5 and L5-L4.
Like everyone else I have had many MRI in the past, but the two words that stand out to me are MODIC degenerative, and DESICCATION, as I have not seen this before on any of MRIs in past. Dont want to get all worried, if nothing to worry about.
My Dr. did give me Ultram to help with pain until I get into NW. He wanted to give me siomething stronger, but I do not want to go down that path again.
Any remarks would help relieve my mind.
Thanks for help, Hoe everyone is having a good day.
Posted 10/18/2013 1:00 AM (GMT 0)
Wow, boy do you ever have a lot going on, especially for someone that has already had surgery. I went to Spine Universe which is an excellent web site and the word modic was used there when speaking of degeneration. Disc desiccation means the disc is leaking its fluid content which happens as we get older. I am going to keep looking modic up more to see what I can find.

Hydrangea, your PCP is right, how in the world are you functioning with everything you have going on with your back. Most people would be screaming in pain. Looks like you have a lot of nerve involvement, plus another disc higher up from your fusion. I am betting surgery will be an option, gosh gal, you can't seem to catch a break with your back problems.

When you get a chance check out www.SpineUniverse.com, its an excellent spine web site. Please keep us posted on what is going on with you. Take care........Susie
Posted 10/18/2013 1:38 PM (GMT 0)
Hope you can get into NW soon, many prayers...Sometimes the hardest part is waiting, I know that is also so very hard for me to do as well.
Again, my prayers...
Posted 10/18/2013 6:42 PM (GMT 0)
Thanks for the posts.....I did google modic and dessication. That did not help, only made me worry even more. lol NW finally called this morning, going in a week from Wednesday. Again, thanks for the reply, you were both always so kind to me back in the day!! There sure are alot of new members and some are gone. Ill be sure to pop in my often.
Posted 10/18/2013 10:13 PM (GMT 0)
Please let us know how your appt at NW goes.

Susie
Posted 10/19/2013 5:30 AM (GMT 0)
Hey Hydrangea,

I'm sorry for all the findings on your recent MRI.... it hurts me just to read all the stuff -- so I really don't know how you are holding up, especially w/out meds. You must be a very strong person!!

Good luck on your upcoming appointment... please keep us updated on what they say!

Take care, Tina
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