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What Does L4/5 Status Post Left-sided Hemilaminectomy And Resection Of Left Ligamentum Flavum Mean?

Posted on Wed, 7 Nov 2012

Question: What does "L4/5 Status post left-sided hemilaminectomy and resection of left ligamentum flavum. Left paracentral mass present in the ventral epidural space with narrowing at the left lateral recess at the posterior margin of the superior L5 endplate. The proximal left L5 nerve root is displaced posterior. Portions of this mass demonstrates enhancement, inkeeping with enhancing granulation tissue. A peripherally enhancing centrally hypointense lession on the postcontrast sequence measured at 0.7 x 0.7 x 0.8 cm is noted and concerning for recurrent disc extrusion adjacent to the granulation issue. This results in a mild to moderate degree of canal narrowing. The L4 neural foramina are patent XXXXXXX mean?

Answered by Dr. S K Mishra (1 hour later)

Hi XXXXXXX,
Thanks for writing to us.
1. According to your description put in simplified way, there is a recurrent disc extrusion ( which means it has moved from its original location) along with granulation tissue. This is causing compression of exiting nerve root (left L5).
2.However a definite comment about significance can be made only after observing MRI films. You can upload the films or email them to YYYY@YYYY with"Attention to Dr SK Mishra" in the subject line.
3.If you have been operated recently and your symptoms are not much, you can wait, otherwise consult your operating surgeon.
Hope that helps
Regards

Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Aparna Kohli