i need in laymans terms what..abnormal appearance of labral surfaces(superior &posteroinferior)means on MRI?

Question

A LEFT SHOULDER MRI REPORT SAYS THAT & LG JOINT EFFUSION, MODERATE IMPINGEMENT. DEFECT IN SUPEROPOSTERIOR ASPECT OF HUMERAL HEAD BECAUSE OF HILL-SACH'S TYPE LESION AND PREVIOUS DISLOCATION. EDEMATOUS CHANGES ALSO SEEN. SOME MARROW EDEMATOUS CHANGES IDENTIFIED. PLEASE TELL ME IN LAYMANS TERMS WHAT ALL THIS MEANS. MY LEFT SHOULDER IS DISLOCATING AT THE SLIGHTEST MOVEMENT AND HAS TO BE MANUALLY PUT BACK IN...EVERYTIME, CAUSING THE PAIN AND FREQUENCY OF DISLOCATION TO INCREASE. I CAN SCAN AND EMAIL THE REPORT TO ANYONE WILLING TO HELP EXPLAIN TO ME. I AM A 15 YR MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS PATIENT IF THAT MATTERS AT ALL.

Answer 1

I'm also a RN who has taught Nursing for over 20 years. I would give the previous RN an A+ for her layman's interpretation of the MRI findings. The important goal for you at this time is to have a full orthopedic workup based on your MRI findings by an orthopedic surgeon who specializes in shoulders Yes, they have their own sub-specialties. I empathize so much with you trying to manage the frequent dislocation of your shoulder. Yes, you are right, the problem will continue to grow worse without medical intervention. Please don't concern yourself with the MRI medical jargon. In summary, it just gives some details to the physician about the specifics of the abnormalities and tissue damage occurring in your shoulder which has created your pain and shoulder dysfunction including dislocation. What I advise you to focus on is obtaining an explanation in simple layman's terms from an orthopedic surgeon (specializing in shoulders) regarding your medical/surgical options including surgery, medications and physical therapy. Your MRI indicates that there is specific tissue damage that won't repair on its own. If you don't have confidence in the first orthopedic opinion then get a second opinion. I also suggest that you take a relative or close friend with you for support as well as to have someone to discuss the information with after the appointment. Also take a pen and pad of paper with you and have your physician use simple diagrams when explaining his medical findings, test results, and treatment management suggestions to you. I want to congratulate you for seeking out further information about your MRI findings. Knowledge is definitely power and the acquisition of medical knowledge regarding your personal health will give you a sense of being in control rather than being a victim. Good luck to you and God bless. I sincerely pray that things work out well for you. You have had more than your share of medical problems and pain.

Answer 2

Labral surfaces= ring of fibrous cartilege around the joint surface of the bone.

superior= above or over the top of

posterior= the back or behind

inferior= below

effusion=too much fluid

inpingement=encroach or trespass (as with the spinal cord to impinge means to add pressure upon or be in it's space.)

Hill-Sach's= type of impound fracture

lesion= abnormality

Superoposterior=above and behind

Edematous= swollen, from fluid

So, basically, the fibrous cartilege is abnormal above, behind and below. Your left shoulder joint contains too much fluid, and is moderately encroaching where it shouldn't be. Above and behind your humeral head (a joint in the shoulder), is a defect due to an impound fracture that caused an abnormality in the tissue and from previous dislocation. Changes were noted due to swelling.

Hope this helps, if you see an ortho ask for further explanation. Also find out what treatments are available.

ADDED: Thanks, Marnie :) Oh, LVN, not RN...