The wording of an MRI report can be colorfully descriptive and interpretable but there are some general rules that most radiologists use.
“Near complete effacement of the CSF space” can mean multiple things. Effacement is a term used to indicate “touching” of the surface of the structure or some slight compression but not overt compression. In this context, the radiologist seems to indicate that there is stenosis or narrowing of the central canal. By his terms, he does not state significant cord compression is present. This however is my interpretation of his wording.
“Moderate to severe right and mild left foraminal narrowing” means significant foraminal stenosis at the right side (see website for description) compressing the C7 nerve and mild compression of the left nerve.
The radiologist does not report what structure is compressing the canal and nerves but typically with this pathology, it will be a broad based bone spur that is causing the compression.
Some radiologists are incredibility descriptive and paint a picture of the spine with words and some radiologists are dry. This is why I like to read my own MRI images as terms such as “mild”, “moderate”, “severe” and “effacement” are shades of gray and those modifiers are in the eyes of the beholder.
Dr. Corenman
PLEASE REMEMBER, THIS FORUM IS MEANT TO PROVIDE GENERAL INFORMATION ON SPINE ANATOMY, CONDITIONS AND TREATMENTS. TO GET AN ACCURATE DIAGNOSIS, YOU MUST VISIT A QUALIFIED PROFESSIONAL IN PERSON.
Donald Corenman, MD, DC is a highly-regarded spine surgeon, considered an expert in the area of neck and back pain. Trained as both a Medical Doctor and Doctor of Chiropractic, Dr. Corenman earned academic appointments as Clinical Assistant Professor and Assistant Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery at the University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, and his research on spine surgery and rehabilitation has resulted in the publication of multiple peer-reviewed articles and two books.
