MRI READS AS FOLLOWS:
There is minimal leftward curvature of the thoracic spine. No acute fracture identified. Schmorl's nodes at multi levels most prominent at T11 level.
At T7-8, there is a moderate disc bulge with central herniation which contacts and the forms the ventral cord. The neuroforamen and central canal appears patent.
At T8-9, there is a moderate disc bulge with right paracentral herniation which contacts and forms the ventral cord. There is encroachment of the right neuroforamen. An annular tear at this level is questioned.
At T 11-12, there is a mild to moderate disc bulge with left paracentral herniation. There is encroachment of the left neuroforamen. The right neuroforamen and central canal or patent.
Impression:
Multilevel degenerative changes as described above which appears worse at the T8-9 level or there is deformed ventral cord with encroachment to the right neuroforamen.
Primary diagnostic code: significant abnormality, attention needed
Side note....the word neuroforamen is spelled that way throughout the entire report from the VA. I am not sure if that is the correct spelling or the way the report was dictated. At my appointment today, they recommended that I not pick up any objects and come in as soon as possible to be set up for a neurosurgeon. Any advice would be greatly appreciated! Thank you very much in advance!