Originally Posted by ginnie

Hi, of course I am concerned about you. If your surgeon is really worried that you are too damaged to operate on, I can't see a point in doing that test. I avoid those kinds of tests like the plague, unless there was hope that the diagnosis would lead to helping you. It is a painful diagnositic test. Usually with the MRI they don't have to do this test. He is trying I suppose to see just how far your damage is, and if there is hope for surgical correction. Because you have mulitipal areas effected, I would choose pain control with the very best pain specialist you can find. Ask your surgeon why this particular test is so important to him, and what the purpose is, if he doesn't want to do surgery anyway. I am so sorry that you have this condition, and I do know how scarry it can be. Weigh all your options before you choose anything. Definately ask your surgeon about this test. I avoided the EMG and the test he wanted to do to you. My surgeon was able to get all he needed from the MRI. I had also had a CT scan at one point. Please let me know what you decide. I sure will support what ever decision you decide upon. Google up that test for a description, it will tell you very clearly, how the proceedure is done. You are in my prayers. ginnie