Risks Associated with MRI Scans
What are the risks associated with MRI Scans? From a practical point of view, there are few medical risks. MRI’s do not utilize radiation. Unless there is use of a dye, it is completely noninvasive. Most patients can tolerate the procedure well. But, certain patients do have some medical risks associated with MRI Scans. If […]
Questions for the Spine Surgeon
Have you been told you need Spinal Surgery? If possible, it is always wise to get a second opinion. But wait! Do your homework first. This is what I would do before seeing a spine surgeon for a second opinion…. 1. Go with a trusted friend or family member. Two sets of ears and two […]
Does Optimism Help Spine Surgery Results?
People who undergo elective spine surgery usually fall into three general groups: 1. Hard charging optimists – People who do not have time for the pain, and dysfunction, of spine problems. These folks are often in a rush to go directly to surgery. 2. Cautious realists – These patients spend appropriate time to understand their problem and the risks […]
Research on Twins and Disc Degeneration
So, what if you had a study where identical twins were subject to difference occupations and followed over time to see if there was any difference in the development of disk degeneration? I think everyone would agree that would be a fascinating study. If we had just a study, maybe we would have enough data to […]
What is myelopathy?
Myelopathy means a compromised state of the spinal cord. And, there are multiple reasons for that situation. The more uncommon reasons are secondary to vascular compromise. Usually there is compromise of the blood supply to the spinal cord. Typically, it is the anterior spinal artery that is effected, although, posterior artery (there are two of […]