Question 1

My dad's MRI shows a diffuse bulge in L23 disc with right paracentral protrusion pressing on the right L3 nerve root, plus a diffuse bulge at L34 causing mild narrowing of the L3 neural foramina. He also has mild generalized arthropathy. He's dealing with constant back pain and leg pain is surgery the only option or can meds help manage this?

Accepted Answer

Patient is advised for neurosurgery opinion.

Question 2

My aunty has been diagnosed with lumbar lordosis and her MRI shows loss of normal lordosis in the lumbar spine. There's moderate lumbar spondylosis with disc degeneration, a posterior disc bulge at L4-L5 and L5-S1 causing narrowing, and a central/paracentral disc protrusion at L1-L2 compressing the thecal sac and mildly narrowing the neural foramina. The doctor recommended surgery but I'm worried is surgery the only option for a permanent fix? Are there other treatments that could help her condition without going under the knife?

Accepted Answer

While surgery may be considered for severe cases, it's not always the first or only option for lumbar lordosis and related issues like spondylosis and disc degeneration. Conservative treatments, including physical therapy, medication, and lifestyle modifications, can often provide significant relief and improve function.

Question 3

I've been diagnosed with a tarlov cyst in the S1S2 area and disc bulges at L3L4 and L3L5. Sitting causes pain in my buttocks and lower back, plus there's radiating pain down my left leg. A neurosurgeon recommended surgery for the cyst should I go ahead with it or explore other options first? What are the risks if I delay treatment?

Accepted Answer

It's wise to explore all options before making a decision about surgery for a Tarlov cyst, especially with disc bulges present. A conservative approach, including physical therapy, pain management, and addressing the disc bulges, is often recommended first. If these fail to provide sufficient relief, surgery might be considered, but it's not always necessary, and the benefits should be carefully weighed against the risks

Have to see the scans and condition of patient directly . Consult neurosurgeon personally.

More Neurosurgery Health Queries

Health Articles for you

Guide to Neurosurgery -Treat Shaky Hands

Pinched Nerve in Neck: Non-Surgical Relief Guide

Cerebral Aneurysm Rupture: Key Symptoms and Emergency Action