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Help Understanding an MRI
Hello,
I have been suffering from lower back pain for almost 30 years. I finally was able to get a MRI done almost a month ago. My doctor keeps telling me they haven't gotten my results yet. I am in between doctors right now due to an insurance issue. So I dont know if them not receiving it is due to them forwarding my charts to the new doctor or what. So i called the imaging center myself and got the results emailed to me today.
I was wondering if someone could help me understand what it is saying since i am in between doctors right now.
Findings: Normal height alignment of the lower thoracic and lumbar vertebrae. the conus is normal.
The L1-2 and L2-3 disc space level are unremarkable.
L3-4: Disc desiccation, a mild disc bulge and a few mid annular tears. Mild facet degenerative changes. The foramina are patent.
L4-5: Mild disc space height loss and a mild to moderate disc bulge and a few annular tears and mild facet degenerative changes and minimal narrowing of the thecal sac and lateral recessess. the foramina are patent.
L5-S1: Moderate disc space height loss and a moderate broad-based central disc protrusion without mass effect on the L5 or S1 nerve roots.
Impression:
1. Moderate broad-based central disc protrusion at L5-S1 without overt neural impingment.
2. Mild disc bulges and facet degenerative changed at L3-4 and L4-5.
Thanks in advanced!