MRI EXAMINATION OF THE LUMBAR SPINE WITHOUT CONTRAST

MRI EXAMINATION OF THE LUMBAR SPINE WITHOUT CONTRAST

FINDINGS:               Sagittal T1 and T2 and axial T1 and T2 weighted images were obtained on the 1.5 Tesla GE MRI.  The patient had prior study from xxxxxxxxx for comparison.  There is continued evidence of slight desiccation of the disc at the L3-L4 through L5-S1 level.  The conus and nerve roots within the thecal sac show no gross abnormality.  There is desiccation of the T12-L1 level disc and slight indentation on the anterior thecal sac.  If there is any further concern, more dedicated evaluation of the thoracic spine may be considered.  Once again, there are incidentally noted changes suggestive of cysts in the kidneys.

At the L1-L2 through L3-L4 levels, there is no significant disc herniation, central canal stenosis, or neuroforaminal narrowing.  There are slight degenerative changes of the facet joints.  This does not appear significantly changed.

At the level of L4-L5, there is continued evidence of mild disc bulge and ligament flavum hypertrophy.  There are slight degenerative changes of the facet joints.  This overall is causing mild central canal stenosis, which does not appear significantly changed compared to previously.

At the L5-S1 level, there is continued evidence of slight indentation on the anterior thecal sac, but no significant central canal stenosis or neuroforaminal narrowing.  There are degenerative changes of the facet joints.  Overall, the examination does not appear significantly changed compared to previously and would recommend further evaluation as necessary.

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