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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Does The Mri Scan Results Means?

I am very confused as to what my MRI results show. I can't find any definitions.These are the terms used. Early Disc Dessication at L4-5 without loss of Disc height,L4-5 1-2 mm concentric disc bulging seen at L5 flattening the anterior thecal margin,some subannular fissuring within the posterior disc slightly to the right of midline,this flattens the anterior thecal margin,moderate ligamentous hypertrophy ,mild reduction of dural matterneoral foramina at L4-5 are widely patent,subtle and nonspecific broad based disc bulging without significant deformity of the thecal sac or the subjacent S1 roots,mild listing of patient to the right without frank scoliotic deformity, visualized lumbosacral plexus appears grossly symmetric and ordinary,early degenerative disc changes seen at L4-5. 1-2 mm of concentric herniation seen at this level,seen in conjunction with ligamentous hypertrophy,mild and focal central stenosis is seen,these changes may or may not compromise descending segments of both L5 roots.

May I also add that I have had this terrible pain & stiffening of my back for many years now & my PCP has had me on Ibuprofen 800 mg. ,Tramadol (Ultram) & Cyclobenzaprine (Flexeril), but none of it helps. I have also tried doing some exercises that my PCP told me to do but due to my other health issues (Colonic Inertia included) plus being on Oxygen full time makes it very difficult to exercise very often. Nothing has helped. Also,may I ask if this spinal problem could have anything to do with never being able to have a Bowel Movement? I'm getting ready to have surgery to remove my colon but if this could be causing it I would rather try to fix this problem first. Thank you, Carol Stevenson
Mon, 15 Dec 2014
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Radiologist 's  Response
The MRI report suggest early degenerative changes. This occurs with age due to wear and tear of the soft tissues of the spine which includes the intervertebral disc and ligaments. Mild bulge of the L4-5 disc is the most relevant finding in the above report and since it is not seen to compress any nerve roots no immediate danger of nerve damage is there. Usually, in a scenario like this, no operation is needed. Some lifestyle modifications (like not to stoop to pick up things, not to lift heavy things) and analgesics are often helpful. Since except for mild compression of the thecal sac (which is the covering of the spinal cord and nerves) no compression on the sacral nerves or spinal cord is mentioned, I don't think this MRI explains issues with your bowel movement.
It is not mentioned why you are on oxygen. Also why are you being considered for surgery for constipation is not clear. Please remember a large stomach and/or a gas distended colon may cause long standing pressure on the spine and back pain. Please consult a neurosurgeon or spinal surgeon regarding your back problems.
Have a nice day!
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What Does The Mri Scan Results Means?

The MRI report suggest early degenerative changes. This occurs with age due to wear and tear of the soft tissues of the spine which includes the intervertebral disc and ligaments. Mild bulge of the L4-5 disc is the most relevant finding in the above report and since it is not seen to compress any nerve roots no immediate danger of nerve damage is there. Usually, in a scenario like this, no operation is needed. Some lifestyle modifications (like not to stoop to pick up things, not to lift heavy things) and analgesics are often helpful. Since except for mild compression of the thecal sac (which is the covering of the spinal cord and nerves) no compression on the sacral nerves or spinal cord is mentioned, I don t think this MRI explains issues with your bowel movement. It is not mentioned why you are on oxygen. Also why are you being considered for surgery for constipation is not clear. Please remember a large stomach and/or a gas distended colon may cause long standing pressure on the spine and back pain. Please consult a neurosurgeon or spinal surgeon regarding your back problems. Have a nice day!