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Worse MRI results....what will happen next?
Spine Health | Last Active: Mar 5 3:19pm | Replies (32)Comment receiving replies
Jennifer:
Thank you for your helpful response, especially the pointers to researching surgeon expertise and qualifications.
I Google mainly to get an understanding of terminology so I can ask reaasonably informed questions. We thought the PA who explained the MRI findings to us did a pretty good job but your caution about knowing which plane the slice is from was helpful to know.
I have a bit of familiarity with cauda equina, since my brother (in England) underwent surgery for the condition a few years ago, but the finding for my husband came as a bit of a shock,
Thank you again!
Replies to "Jennifer: Thank you for your helpful response, especially the pointers to researching surgeon expertise and qualifications...."
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Good morning. Jennifer is a terrific source of perspectives. I echo her points about multiple opinions and choosing the best docs at the best facility with the best equipment. You seem like you're comfortable with online research and I believe there's great information available to help you make informed choices.
I had three spine surgeries (all planned) in 2023. One thing I learned is the decision to have surgery is seldom absolutely clear-cut. Rather, I saw the decision as one of personal risk management. (1) One risk is related to indefinite-surgery-deferral which could result in permanent and uncorrectable nerve damage. (2) Risk two is having the surgery and dealing with an arduous recovery (pretty likely, actually) with ultimate outcomes that are unknowable ahead of time. Was the surgery worth it? You might ask...
The question is: which risk do you feel the most comfortable with ... understanding there is no absolute way to answer these questions. It can be frustrating! Keep digging. Never give up. The best answer for you will become apparent, I believe.