Sciatica is a common condition where the sciatic nerve becomes irritated or inflamed, causing pain, weakness, and numbness along its path. Can it be caused by aging? Read on to find out.
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:
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.
You Might Also Enjoy...
Sciatica is a common condition where the sciatic nerve becomes irritated or inflamed, causing pain, weakness, and numbness along its path. Can it be caused by aging? Read on to find out.
You’re not a doctor, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t know the warning signs of a brain tumor. Early detection can lead to more effective treatment. Get all the facts here.
A pinched nerve is painful and irritating, and it can affect your daily activities. We outline the warning signs of a pinched nerve and share what you can do about it.
If your child has scoliosis, an abnormal curvature of the spine, you may be at a loss about what to do next. We have answers (and treatments) for you.
If your spine has developed a side-to-side curve, you may have scoliosis, a spinal deformity. Learn about effective treatments for this condition here.
If you’re dealing with back pain and wonder if minimally invasive spine surgery is right for you, keep reading to learn more about this amazing surgical approach and what it can do.