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Does C3-4 Disc Protrusion Require Surgery?
I had a cervical spine MRI. Can you tell me what this means , and if u would recommend surgery? It shows the C3-4 disc protrusion that abuts thecal sac. Neuroforamina are patent. Disc measurements neutral 1-2 mm, flexion 1-2 mm extension 2.2 mm. C4-C5 disc protrusion that abuts thecal sac, neuroforamina are patent, disc measurements neutral 1-2mm, extension 2.2mm. C5-6 1-2mm disc protrusion w/o compromise of spinal canal or neuroforamina.
Mon, 8 Feb 2016
Hello and thanks for using HCM.
I have read your question and understand your concerns.
From description of MRI, I think surgery can wait, but, most important thing in deciding if your condition needs surgery or not, are your symptoms.
If mild symptoms, conservative treatment such physical therapy (neck traction exercises) and NSAID use, could be tried.
If moderate to severe symptoms and failure of conservative treatment, surgery (decompression+/- spine fusion) should be considered.
Hope you found the answer helpful.
Greetings.
I have read your question and understand your concerns.
From description of MRI, I think surgery can wait, but, most important thing in deciding if your condition needs surgery or not, are your symptoms.
If mild symptoms, conservative treatment such physical therapy (neck traction exercises) and NSAID use, could be tried.
If moderate to severe symptoms and failure of conservative treatment, surgery (decompression+/- spine fusion) should be considered.
Hope you found the answer helpful.
Greetings.