Need Clarification ASAP!

I just recently had a MRI of my C-spine and the results are at C4/5 Broad based impingement upon the thecal sac apparently in relation to posterior disk osteophyte formation. Mild narrowing of both neural foramina in relation to uncovertebral oseophyte. Mild central and bilateral foraminal stenosis is also seen at this level. C5/6 I have a solid interbody fusion at this level.  Mild central stenosis in relation to residual osteophyte but no foraminal stenosis can be seen at this level. C6/7 There is a broad based impingement on the thecal sac causing flattening on the thecal sac apparently secondary to posterior disk osteophyte complex. No significant appearing stenosis can be seen at this level.  My Dr. which is a family prac. has ordered a EMG with a diagnosis of Neuropathy to be done.  I have numbness in my right arm 50% of the time and I am having trouble gripping things with my right hand especially between my thumb and index finger. I have pain in my left shoulder blade and neck. I have trouble turning my neck to the left when I do there is pulling all down in my shoulder blade area. I also have bladder problems with urgency and have to strain at times I take Detrol for this. My question is: Do you think I am going to need surgery and what is your opinion of the MRI nad is a diagnosis of Neuropathy correct??  Please Help!..... I am scared.

[Abhijeet Deshmukh, MD]

Hello.

From the MRI, it is obvious that the discs are impinging upon the nerve roots. Surgery is a better option .

A diagnosis of Neuropathy is vague. Neuroapthy is a disorder of nerve cells. In your case, you have compressive neuropathy. I can not say if your doctor thinks of any other neuropathy. There is no harm in getting an EMG and NCS (nerve conduction study) done.

Regards

[G35]

Thank you so very much for giving your opinion and advice as to how to proceed with my situation.  I wanted to ask you, would my MRI scan had revealed more in regrads to degenerative and compression if I would have had it would contrast?  Should I have a CT done with contrast?

[Abhijeet Deshmukh, MD]

Hello.

The contrast would have made it clearer. And you can go ahead for a contrast CT scan. With the contrast, you can see the obstruction in the flow of the fluid, which gives and idea about the severity of the obstruction.

Regards