Thoracic disc replacement is a surgical procedure to replace a damaged thoracic disc with an artificial implant. For some patients, this procedure delivers reduced pain without sacrificing spinal flexibility. NU-Spine: The Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Institute provides thoracic disc replacement and other advanced spine procedures for patients in New Jersey, Florida, and Pennsylvania. Here, we discuss disc replacement, its benefits, and who will get the most out of surgery.
Key Takeaways
- Thoracic spinal discs are cushions of tissue between vertebrae. They are vulnerable to age-related degradation and herniation, or rupture.
- Thoracic disc replacement is a surgical treatment for herniated discs.
- Disc replacement offers superior mobility, faster recoveries, and less risk of continued degeneration than a spinal fusion, but also less stability.
Thoracic Disc Anatomy
The thoracic spine contains a total of 12 spinal discs, or pads of tissue that separate each pair of vertebrae. Each disc has two parts. The annulus fibrosus is the tough outer layer that provides the disc with its structure. At its center is the nucleus pulposus, a soft, jelly-like core. This structure allows thoracic discs to perform several important functions:
- Holding the vertebrae together
- Cushioning against shock
- Allowing for slight mobility between vertebrae
At birth, about 80% of a spinal disc is composed of water. It relies on this water content to maintain strength and flexibility. Over time, however, discs start to dehydrate. This is called thoracic degenerative disc disease (DDD). Dehydrated discs are stiff and less able to adjust to compression. They are also vulnerable to thoracic disc herniation, where the annulus fibrosus ruptures and allows the nucleus to leak. The leaking nucleus inflames and irritates nearby tissue, including the spinal cord.
What Is Thoracic Disc Replacement?
Thoracic disc replacement is a surgical treatment for thoracic degenerative disc disease (DDD) or thoracic disc herniation. The procedure works by removing the degenerated or damaged disc before replacing it with an artificial implant. This effectively relieves most of the pain caused by a disc herniation.
Most disc replacement devices feature a ball-and-socket structure. They have two brackets, one to be affixed to each adjacent vertebrae, surrounding a rounded insert. The device may be made of metal, polymer (plastic), or ceramic, depending on its manufacturer. This structure gives it excellent durability, and most disc replacements last for up to 40 years. It also has a range of motion like natural spinal discs, allowing the spine to recover some of its lost mobility.
Thoracic Disc Replacement vs. Fusion
Thoracic disc replacement is often used as an alternative to thoracic spinal fusion, a procedure that treats disc issues by fusing vertebrae into a single strong bone. While both procedures can be used for similar situations, disc replacement offers several advantages:
- Better mobility: Thoracic disc replacement preserves the spine’s flexibility, so patients do not have to give up their mobility.
- Faster recovery: Because no bone fusion is required, patients who receive disc replacements can recover and return to work sooner.
- Less degeneration: Disc replacement puts less stress on the discs above and below the surgery site, reducing the risk of further degeneration.
- Reduced pain: Disc replacement causes less tissue damage, and patients report experiencing less pain than with spinal fusion.
Despite these benefits, disc replacement is not applicable for all patients. If degeneration has affected multiple levels of the spine, for example, replacement is not a viable solution. Spinal fusion has broader applicability for multi-level treatments, alignment corrections, and more. It also provides better stability, which may be more effective at relieving pain for some patients.
Ideal Candidates for Thoracic Disc Replacement
When determining the best procedure for any patient, NU-Spine surgeons Dr. Branko Skorvrlj and Dr. Robert J. Rothrock consider every factor. They carefully weigh the patient’s symptoms and past treatments to determine whether the timing is right for surgery, then evaluate their imaging findings and neurological results to confirm that a disc problem is the cause of their pain. Finally, health and lifestyle factors are considered while deciding the right procedure for the patient.
Learn More About Thoracic Disc Replacement Near You in NJ, FL, or PA
Relieving back pain does not always mean giving up your mobility. Transform your life with a touch of care at NU-Spine: The Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Institute, where we provide cutting-edge procedures, including thoracic disc replacement. Contact us today to learn more or schedule an appointment at one of our New Jersey, Florida, and Pennsylvania locations.
Thoracic Disc Replacement FAQ
Is thoracic disc replacement FDA-approved for all levels?
Yes, thoracic disc replacement is approved by U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for all levels of the spine.
How long do artificial thoracic discs last?
Artificial thoracic discs can last up to 40 years or more before needing replacement.
Can I still exercise and play sports after disc replacement?
Yes, you can exercise and play sports after disc replacement.