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What Does The Following MRI Report Indicate?
Question: Thanks....not getting a response from my own doctor! I have an MRI with a moderate disc herniation at C5-6 with mild cord compression and mild myelomalcia vs edema. I addition there is moderate narrowing of foramina at c5-6 and severe arthrosis/narrowing around C7 with some nerve impingement. Although I don't have a lot of pain, I saw neurology because of ongoing parasthesias in my hand. On exam I had some sensory loss, some mild hand weakness and possibly some hyperrelexia. Despite lots of calls and research I can't get an answer....is this something a surgeon should at least evaluate?
Brief Answer:
Yes, surgery should be considered.
Detailed Answer:
I read your question carefully and I understand your concern.
Judging from that MRI report the disc herniation does lead to compression of the spinal cord, possibly with some cord swelling as well. On top of that there are symptoms which do correspond to spinal cord compression such as hand weakness, increased reflexes and sensory changes.
Based on that info I do believe that you are right, you should at least be evaluated by a neurosurgeon as surgery for cord decompression must be considered (surgery for nerve root decompression may be considered as well, but since you say pain has subsided and nerve compression is associated with absent reflexes, I would not think it likely to be the cause).
In particular if symptoms have been progressing surgery would be absolutely necessary to prevent further damage and disability. Even if symptoms have been stable though, I would still say an evaluation is recommended.
I remain at your disposal for other questions.
Yes, surgery should be considered.
Detailed Answer:
I read your question carefully and I understand your concern.
Judging from that MRI report the disc herniation does lead to compression of the spinal cord, possibly with some cord swelling as well. On top of that there are symptoms which do correspond to spinal cord compression such as hand weakness, increased reflexes and sensory changes.
Based on that info I do believe that you are right, you should at least be evaluated by a neurosurgeon as surgery for cord decompression must be considered (surgery for nerve root decompression may be considered as well, but since you say pain has subsided and nerve compression is associated with absent reflexes, I would not think it likely to be the cause).
In particular if symptoms have been progressing surgery would be absolutely necessary to prevent further damage and disability. Even if symptoms have been stable though, I would still say an evaluation is recommended.
I remain at your disposal for other questions.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
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