What is Thoracic Spine Surgery?

The thoracic area of the spine resides within the upper back and abdomen, between the cervical spine in the neck and the lumbar spine in the lower back. It is comprised of the vertebrae T1-T12.

The thoracic area of the spine resides within the upper back and abdomen, between the cervical spine in the neck and the lumbar spine in the lower back. It is comprised of the vertebrae T1-T12. You may need thoracic spine surgery, or you may be looking for spine surgery in Atlanta, if you have a severely herniated disc which has resulted in spinal cord dysfunction or unbearable pain, or if you have one of the following conditions:

scoliosis
degenerative disc disease
kyphosis
spondylolisthesis
compression fracture

What is a thoracic laminectomy?

A thoracic laminectomy, also known as open decompression, involves the removal of the portion of the bone causing pressure on the nerves. It is recommended for conditions such as disc herniation and spinal stenosis. It is performed under general anesthetic and through a small incision in the back. Because this procedure is likely to make the back unstable, after the bone has been removed, spinal fusion is usually performed to stabilize the spine.

During this procedure, two or more vertebrae in the thoracic region of the spine are joined, using a bone graft, so as to prevent movement between them. Metal plates or rods may also be inserted to hold the vertebrae in place while the bone graft is healing. Laminectomy usually requires a brief stay in hospital of 1-2 days. When you return home, you must be sure to keep the site of the incision clean and dry. Any surgical stitches or staples will be removed by your physician on a follow-up visit. Your doctor may recommend mild pain medication to alleviate any soreness. Complications following a laminectomy are rare.

Polaris Spine & Neurosurgery Center has been providing patients with quality healthcare for more than thirty years. We are dedicated to treating the debilitating effects spine-related conditions. We specialize in the most minimally invasive surgical procedures possible. If you need thoracic spine surgery, contact us today at 404-256-2633 and let us help you get back to a life that is pain-free.