Thoracic Microdiscectomy

When Is Thoracic Microdiscectomy Recommended?

Thoracic microdiscectomy is the standard treatment for a thoracic herniated disc or a ruptured disc in the upper back. The rupture creates a leak into the spinal canal, putting pressure on the spinal cord. It may also reduce the cushioning between vertebrae. This creates symptoms such as:

• Shooting or traveling pain in the chest, upper back, or legs
• Numbness or tingling in the legs
• Loss of strength in the arms or legs
• Difficulty walking
• Loss of urinary or bowel control
• Headaches, especially in certain positions

In some cases, thoracic disc herniation can be treated with conservative methods. Rest, medication, steroid injections, or physical therapy may temporarily relieve back pain. However, these methods do not always lead to long-term improvement. If the patient’s pain does not respond to non-invasive treatments, or if it significantly interferes with their everyday activities, then thoracic microdiscectomy may be recommended as a permanent solution.

Who Performs Thoracic Microdiscectomy at NU-Spine?

Our resident neurosurgeon, Dr. Branko Skovrlj, performs surgical treatments at NU-Spine. He is a board-certified specialist in all kinds of spine surgeries, with a special focus on complex procedures and minimally invasive spine surgery. He is also one of the only neurosurgeons in New Jersey who focuses solely on the spine. His expertise and his contributions to research have earned him multiple awards.

Despite his many accolades, Dr. Skovrlj believes in small-town values. He understands that back pain is often difficult to discuss, so he takes the time to get to know his patients and establish a rapport. Patients find him approachable and feel comfortable when receiving treatment.

How Is Thoracic Microdiscectomy Performed?

Thoracic microdiscectomy is typically performed under general anesthesia. This means the patient is asleep during the procedure. Dr. Skovrlj follows these steps to perform a microdiscectomy:

1. He makes an incision near the herniated disc.
2. He pulls the back muscles aside gently using a surgical dilator, which allows him to access the spine without further cutting.
3. He inserts an endoscope, or tiny camera, into the channel created by the dilator to see inside the spine for improved precision.
4. Using advanced tools, Dr. Skovrlj removes enough of the lamina – or the back section of vertebra – to access the herniated disc.
5. He removes parts of the spinal disc until the spinal cord is no longer impinged.
6. If necessary, he may perform thoracic spinal fusion surgery to stabilize the vertebrae on either side of where the spinal disc was removed.
7. He closes the incision with sutures (stitches) and covers it with a dressing.

By itself, a thoracic microdiscectomy typically takes 30 to 60 minutes. The entire procedure may take longer if a spinal fusion is required. Once finished, the patient is taken to a recovery room to wake up. Depending on the patient’s condition and recovery, they may go home the same day or spend one night at the hospital.

Recovery After Thoracic Microdiscectomy

When it is safe for the patient to go home, Dr. Skovrlj will provide recovery instructions. Patients should carefully follow these instructions to help their backs heal properly. Guidelines may include:

• Protecting the incision site
• Limiting heavy lifting and strenuous activities
• Exercising to improve back strength
• Taking medications to manage pain
• Monitoring the incision for signs of infection
• Scheduling a follow-up appointment

Most patients can return to light activities after one or two weeks. A physical or occupational therapist provides guidance toward a full return to normal activities. In total, recovery from microdiscectomy typically takes about six weeks.

Outcomes of Thoracic Microdiscectomy

Though recovering from thoracic microdiscectomy might take several weeks, patients often experience immediate relief from herniated disc pain. As soon as they recover, they can return to normal mobility and function without restrictions.

Thoracic microdiscectomy is minimally invasive, which offers extra benefits over a traditional discectomy. Because this approach minimizes surgical trauma, it provides results with less pain and fewer complications. This leads to an easier and faster recovery, allowing patients to get back to pain-free living sooner.

Explore Upper Back Pain Treatments Near You in New Jersey

Don’t wait to experience relief from painful back conditions. Transform your life with a touch of care at NU-Spine: The Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Institute. Experience the cutting edge in minimally invasive spine treatments, including thoracic microdiscectomy. Contact us today to learn more or schedule an appointment at one of our New Jersey locations near you.

Frequently Asked Questions on Thoracic Microdiscectomy

What is thoracic microdiscectomy?

A thoracic microdiscectomy is a procedure that removes parts of a spinal disc from the thoracic region or upper back. It is a minimally invasive discectomy.

When is thoracic microdiscectomy recommended?

Thoracic microdiscectomy is used to treat thoracic herniated discs. It is typically recommended when a patient’s pain interferes with everyday activities, or when the pain has not responded to conservative treatments.

Is thoracic microdiscectomy effective at relieving pain?

Thoracic microdiscectomy is highly effective at addressing pain. Most patients feel relief immediately after surgery, and the relief is usually permanent.

What are the benefits of minimally invasive surgery?

Minimally invasive procedures are ones that limit the amount of cutting into soft tissue and muscle. This reduces post-operative pain and bleeding, allowing for a faster recovery.