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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Does MRI Report Mean?

I received this response from my dr. on my mri - what does this actually mean?



1. 3 mm central posterior disc protrusion at L3-L4 level superimposed

on minimal diffuse posterior disc bulge. Mild central canal narrowing

at L3-L4 level.

2. Minimal degenerative changes in the lower lumbar spine with mild

neural foraminal narrowing as outlined above.
Thu, 15 May 2014
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Radiologist 's  Response
Hi,
Thanks for writing in.

1. 3 mm central posterior disc protrusion at L3-L4 level superimposed on minimal diffuse posterior disc bulge. Mild central canal narrowing at L3-L4 level.
2. Minimal degenerative changes in the lower lumbar spine with mild neural foraminal narrowing as outlined above.

This refers to the disc at level L 3 - L 4 showing degenerative changes where the disc between two small bones has slipped backwards and is causing pressure and narrowing of the spinal canal. This can also cause pressure in the neural foramina on either side which causes pain due to impinging of nerve roots.

There is also degenerative changes in the lower lumbar levels due to which you might have pain.

The nerve pain may be controlled with restricted physical activity and pain relief medication. Please do not do heavy physical activity till you are comfortable. If the pain persists in spite of restricted physical activity and proper pain relief medications for few months then surgical treatment can be thought of. Laser assisted surgery is becoming popular in this area.
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What Does MRI Report Mean?

Hi, Thanks for writing in. 1. 3 mm central posterior disc protrusion at L3-L4 level superimposed on minimal diffuse posterior disc bulge. Mild central canal narrowing at L3-L4 level. 2. Minimal degenerative changes in the lower lumbar spine with mild neural foraminal narrowing as outlined above. This refers to the disc at level L 3 - L 4 showing degenerative changes where the disc between two small bones has slipped backwards and is causing pressure and narrowing of the spinal canal. This can also cause pressure in the neural foramina on either side which causes pain due to impinging of nerve roots. There is also degenerative changes in the lower lumbar levels due to which you might have pain. The nerve pain may be controlled with restricted physical activity and pain relief medication. Please do not do heavy physical activity till you are comfortable. If the pain persists in spite of restricted physical activity and proper pain relief medications for few months then surgical treatment can be thought of. Laser assisted surgery is becoming popular in this area.