Thoracic Disc Herniation Surgery
Question: How is thoracic disc herniation surgery performed?
Answer: The method is determined according to the herniation’s location and the patient’s condition.
Surgical options:
Minimally invasive methods
• Endoscopic discectomy
• Thoracoscopic discectomy
Open surgical methods
• Microsurgery
• Fusion / instrumentation when required
“Thoracic disc surgery requires high technical skill due to proximity to the spinal cord.”
How do we decide whether surgery is necessary?
- Is there loss of strength?
- Has walking deteriorated?
- Is there a change in bladder or bowel control?
- Does MRI show spinal cord compression?
If any answer is “yes,” surgical evaluation is required.