Question
I had an MRI in January 2012.  I have Multiple Sclerosis (diagnosed about 8 years ago. I had an injury that has required 2 back surgeries, so far.
My question refers to the first statement on the MRI interpretation. I think it refers to a MS lesion, but I'm not sure.
It is as follows:

There is a patchy heterogeneous pattern of marrow conversion involving the lumbar-sacral spine.

Then, there is the interpretation itself - I had a 4mm herniation, it was pressing into the nerve root; requiring surgery back in June 2011.  Then, in January - I was not able to control my bladder and could not get up without excruciating pain. I was crippled. My question, the culprit was a 7mm "fragment" that pressed against the nerve root.

The impression is as follows:

L4-5 HNP with an extruded fragment of 7mm in diameter toward the right lateral recess-neural foramina. This appears to result in more significant encroachment upon the lateral recess than the neural foramina. There is slight flattening of the thecal sac at this level.

Could you help me understand the interpretation? I don't understand how a 4mm rupture could result in a 7mm fragment. I appreciate your insight.

Suzy Wilson

Answer
It could be a typo , but regardless i would go to your doctor that ordered the mri and have him explain it to you on a model or picture so you can understand. It is also possible to have a disc herniation of one size and to have a separate fragment or extrusion as its called sometimes.
After your back surgery i recommend 15-20 cold laser treatments to break up the scar tissue from post surgery. good luck.