Expert: Erik Thorelius - 3/1/2006

Question
Can you help explain what the MRI findings are as follows:

MRI Imaging: T1/T2 sagittal and axial T1/T2 imags of the lumbosacral spine were obtained w.o contrast on a Hitachi Airis II Open MRI scanner
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Findings:  Exam of LSpine reveals a hypolordotic lumbar curve.  There is preservation of disc space height and hydration.  The bone marrow and prevertebral soft tissues are normal.  No anterior listesis is seen.  The conus terminates at L1.  5 lumbar vertebral segments are presumed for the purpose of this discussion.  There is minimal retrolisthesis of L5 upon S1 by approx 1 mm.

L1: No evidence of herniated disc or spinal stenosis is seen.  
T12-L1: No evidence of herniated disc or central spinal stenosis is seen.  Apophyseal joint narrowing is noted bilaterally.
L1-L2:No evidence of herniated disc or central spinal stenosis is seen.  Apophyseal joint narrowing is noted bilaterally
L2-L3 No evidence of herniated disc or central spinal stenosis is seen.  Apophyseal joint narrowing is noted bilaterally
L3-L4:No evidence of herniated disc or central spinal stenosis is seen.  Apophyseal joint narrowing is noted bilaterally
L4-5: There is a 0.5 to 1.0 mm bulge of the annulus present minimally narrowing the inner zonal fat of the neural exit foramina about 5% on both sides.  Facet Arthrosis is noted bilaterally.  There are subtle features for a left paramidline annular tear at the outer zone of the neural exit foramen on the lft side at the 4 o'clock radisu measuring 1 mm.  Facet effusion is noted on the left side.
L5-S1: There is a 1.2 mm focal central disc protrusion present partially effacing the venral epidural fat.  This is associated with moderate swelling of the descdneing S1 nerve root on the left side.  Facet arthrosis is noted bilaterally.  The SI joints are patent.  The anterior to posterior spinal canal is narowed to approx 10-11 mm at this level

IMPRESSION:


Answer
Thank you for your question.

"Exam of LSpine reveals a hypolordotic lumbar curve" means that the spine is straighter in shape than what is commonly seen.

"Apophyseal joint narrowing is noted bilaterally." means that the joints' cartilage is not as wide as usual.

At level L4-5 and L5-S1 the findings can be describes as being of mild degenerative nature, most notable being the swelling of the S1 left nerve root which may cause pain in the corresponding area in your left leg, namely the back medial parts of the thigh and calf.

I hope this answers your question.

Regards
Erik