What Is a Thoracic Discectomy?

A thoracic discectomy is a surgical procedure used to treat a herniated disc in the thoracic spine, or mid-back. During the procedure, the surgeon removes the portion of the disc that is pressing on the spinal cord or nearby nerves to relieve pressure on these structures.

The thoracic spine consists of 12 vertebrae located between the neck and lower back. Between the vertebrae are intervertebral discs that provide cushioning and help absorb stress on the spine.

What Causes a Thoracic Herniated Disc?

A thoracic herniated disc occurs when the inner material of an intervertebral disc pushes through or places pressure on its outer layer. If the displaced disc material presses against the spinal cord or a nerve, it can cause pain and other symptoms.

Thoracic discs can become damaged as a result of age-related degeneration, injury, or stress on the spine. Herniated discs occur less frequently in the thoracic spine than in the cervical or lumbar spine.

Thoracic Herniated Disc Symptoms

Symptoms of a thoracic herniated disc depend on the location of the affected disc and whether it is placing pressure on the spinal cord or nerves. Symptoms may include:

• Mid-back pain
• Pain that travels around the chest or ribs
• Numbness or tingling
• Muscle weakness
• Difficulty with balance or walking

Your doctor may use a physical examination and imaging studies to determine the location of the herniated disc and whether it is affecting the spinal cord or nearby nerves.