Please clarify my MRI report.

Question

Hi doctor,

Around four weeks ago, I drove for three hours. I had pain in my abdomen that had spread to my spine. I had to crawl everywhere for one week as I could not walk. The pain has reduced, but still I am uncomfortable. I have been advised by my doctor not to work until I consult a specialist as it could be serious. I had back pain in the past, but never for this long period of time. My current medications are Ibuprofen and Paracetamol with Codeine. I hope you can help me with my MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) report. The comment at the end of my MRI lumbar spine says: Moderate central stenosis with indentation of anterior cord at T11-T12, possibly with an area of cord edema or myelomalacia. I have been referred to a neurosurgeon. Could you please clarify the results and my condition? Is there anything serious?

Answer 1

Hi, Welcome to icliniq.com.

Your MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) report (attachment removed to protect patient identity) is suggestive of compression of the spinal cord in the thoracic spine. There is also some swelling within the cord (cord edema) because of the compression. You can wait till the neurosurgeon sees you and is able to examine you in detail. Though unlikely, if you feel any weakness in the legs or develop any bladder or bowel incontinence, then you should consult your doctor immediately.