why would a orthopedic surgeon disagree with an MRI report

[Angela295]

I had an MRI done on my thoracic spine and lumbar spine. The report read that t7-t8 had a central disk protrusion with a focal mass effect on the thoracic cord...this was also noted for the t8 - t9. I also have protrusion at the t11 and t12. I have a lot of pain in my back from upper to lower. I even have a hard time walking after sitting in a vehicle for an hour. It is literally like learning how to walk again. I have tingling and numbness that goes all the way down to my toes.

What bothers me is that my orthopedic surgeon didnt review the report with me in detail it was like he didn't have time and he sd he did not agree with the MRI saying my thoracic cord was indented by the t7 t8 and t8 t9. I know my body and the pain i have been in since may 2008. Is this normal routine for surgeons to say this and act like this to their patients or am I over reacting to the way he responded??

[mandyjane46]

Angela im sorry to tell you ,but its very possible that your guy is very concerned about operating on the thoracic area and as a result is brushing it aside. I spent ayear with a neuro guy who consistenty told me that my leg weakness was unrelated to the T11-12 prolapse and indeed referred me to a pyschiatrist. After this I got a 2nd opinion in a city and have just found out that I have conus medallus..a spinal compression condition that can occur at T12-L1 and that my leg weakness/ bladder and bowel problems are consistent with this.I asked the new guy the same question and he gave me the same answer as I said. Basically thoracic surgery is highly skilled stuff as it involves rib removal,lung deflation to get to prolapse...only 1% of all prolapses are in this area(cos the rib cage usually protects the back) .  So yes they can react like this and no you are not over-reacting
A piece of dvise I was given was,,,for this type of highly skilled surgery get a neurosurgical referral..DONT ues an orthopedic guy as its very very delicate work and this area has many important nerves in , supplyiny the heart,lungs,liver and at T12 the legs,bladder and bowel. and female bits. I have had this problem since july2007 and have not got permanent damge to my bowel,bladder.  I am having surgery but its unlikely now that recovery with be complete.
the guy has done you a favour..ditch him and get a neurosurgeon.
Good luck
MJ

[mandyjane46]

sorry  that meant to say..now got permanent damage to bladder etc. Ive also lost female sensation...which at 46 and single..saddens me greatly..dont end up like me...get another guy...