Hi ~ First, you definitely need another MRI with and without contrast material. You need to know exactly what's going on.

The ONLY reason for spinal surgery is cauda equina (loss of bladder & bowel function) or the possibility of permanent nerve damage. Plus if the spinal cord is being impinged, you'd need surgery too! Surgery for herniations/bulges isn't the best idea because you're not guaranteed that the pain will be relieved. Many times the pain is WORSE after surgery! Plus surgery increases the chance that the levels above & below the surgery site will fail.

I agree with Doc Smith --- I've had 2 open spinal surgeries, and I'm worse now than I was before! I had these before the internet, so I couldn't do alot of research. Since then, I've had surgeons say they wouldn't touch me, as things would probably be worse after surgery.

I wish you the very best. Make sure you do your homework & research your condition thoroughly!! But don't jump into surgery. It should be a last resort. God bless & take care. Hugs, Lee