Cervical & Lumbar MRI Results

is there somthing specific that you would like some advice on

respectfully Rollar64

In regards to the anterolesthesis am I understanding correctly that it could be resulting from the first fusion??? Also if another fusion is recommended isn"t that almost looking for trouble if their is not a truly significant reason to do so? Most neurosurgeons are quick to recommend surgery so first I am going to my new neurologist for his opinion.Any thoughts or comments would be appreciated. Thanks for listening,

"In regards to the anterolesthesis am I understanding correctly that it could be resulting from the first fusion???"

Its possible as you know a fusion stops any motion between the two vertebrae that are fused this has the effect of putting extra stress on the spinal joints below, and above the fused level. This can result in the discs at theses levels bulging or rupturing, and possibly needing a fusion also. However anterolesthesis is not something that is commonly thought to result from a fusion that is near the level of the anterolesthesis.

But anything that changes the mechanics, and the forces that occur in your spine has the potential to cause problems over time.

Because you have many problems at different levels its possible that you have some underlying problem with your spine, and some kind of mechanical dysfunction is likely to be present, it may even be the cause of your problems or it may have predisposed you to these problems that you have, and a traumatic incident such a bad fall or a car smash could have kick started your degenerative spine disease.

"Also if another fusion is recommended isn"t that almost looking for trouble if their is not a truly significant reason to do so?"


Yes i think you are correct, but if a good surgeon is adamant that you need a fusion then you should listen to them, its up to you if want surgery or not. Surgery will not cure the degeneration that your spine has suffered, but it can reduce the symptoms, and somtimes slow or halt the degenerative process. You are also right sometimes there is a really good reason to have surgery like when part of a disc is pressing on the spinal cord so hard that the nerves are being damaged.

sorry to make it all sound so complicated but that's the way i see it and the best way i can explain it.


Good luck callie57