Myelo malaccia cord impingement spinal stenosis

[gottoflgd]

In 2004, I was diagnosed with spinal stenosis,cord impingement at section C4-5  . Two weeks ago on a follow up MRI, the test showed the presence of MYELO MALACCIA running at several levels. I have no physical symptoms except a tingling in the fingers of both hands (thumb,pointer,middle). MY neurologist was concerned and sent me to a neuro surgeon in NY who recommended "open door" laminoplasty to protect the spinal cord from further damage.

My questions are as follows:

1.Should I seek surgery now or wait because of lack of symptoms?How long can one wait? at what point is surgery indicated?

2. Will I lose range of motion and physical ability from t he surgery assuming a good outcome?

3.How long will I need to recuperate ? When will I be able to return to strenuous physical activity like working out?

4.Will the mylaccia get worse and be life threatening say from involvement of autonomic centers? Am I taking a serious risk waiting?

5 will my life be compromised from this surgery,should I prepare mentally for this event?

Thank you

[Dr. A. Srivastava]

Thank you for your question. This stenosis and nerve impingement can aggravate if not treated in early stage, although your treating doctor is in best position to let you know about the precise treatment. I would suggest that you consult your neurologist for better insight of the situation. Hope this helps.

[gottoflgd]

Dr, first of all thank you for your response. The MRI shows stenosis of the cord ant multiple levels. The cause of the myelomalacia is clearly cord impingement at level C4-5.

I have no symptoms except tingling sporadically in my fingers.There are no continuous symptoms in my arm or neck.


My question is why then should I do this surgery now? When is it appropriate to do the surgery?

thanks

[Dr. A. Srivastava]

Hi, Thank you for your question. Although without being able to examine you I can not offer you the specific advice on diagnosis and treatment that you need, but I would try to provide you some relevant information about your health concern.

Myelomalacia is a pathological softening of the spinal cord.  Therefore, your MRI findings is extremely important in order to explain reason of your symptoms here.  If you have recent increase in the symptoms then it appears that your pre-existing problem may be worsened.  If you are suffering from continuous symptoms in neck and arm please arrange an appointment with a neurologist right away who will evaluate the further underlying disorders by clinically examine you that may be the main reasons of your symptoms and can provide you an appropriate treatment. Hope this information proves helpful to you. Take Care & Regards!!!