Quick interpretation and opinion as to second opinion needs.

[RLBOW]

I have recently seen a Neurosurgeon for my on going back problems (27 years). He looked at the MRI disc and the report and stated that I am not a good candidate for surgery, yet I have knowledge that others with less problems than mine have had success with surgery.

I would like help in translation of the MRI Report and suggestions/opinions if I should seek another opinion from a second Neurosurgeon.

Here is the MRI Report:

He has moderate disc space narrowing and desiccation at L4-L5, L5-S1, mild at L1-L2.

At L5-S1 there is moderate facet arthritis. He has mild broad-based disc bulge with a small central component disc protrusion. While there is no spinal stenosis, there is bi-lateral neural foraminal impingement.

At L4—L5 there is moderate facet arthritis with mild broad-based disc bulge and small central component disc protrusion. Again there is no true spinal stenosis. He has slight bilateral neural foraminal impingement.

At L3-L4 there is mild facet arthritis.

At no other level is there focal disc protrusion or spinal stenosis.

Impression:  Moderate Lumbar spondylosis at L4-L5, L5-S1. There is bilateral neural foraminal impingement, greatest at the lower level.