Thoracic Disc Herniation

Symptoms of thoracic disc herniation may include:

• Pain in the upper back
• Numbness, pain or tingling from the upper back and around the chest
• Leg weakness
• Chest pain

Your doctor will examine your movements, strength and reflexes. He or she also may recommend the following tests:

• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) — An MRI provides detailed pictures of the spine that are produced with a powerful magnet linked to a computer.
• Computed Tomography (CT) Scan — A CT scan uses a thin X-ray beam that rotates around the spine area. A computer processes data to construct a three-dimensional, cross-sectional image.
• Myelogram — This is an X-ray of your spine taken after a special dye has been injected into the spinal column. It can show pressure on the spinal cord or problems with discs or vertebrae.

Most often, thoracic disc herniation is treated with bed rest and pain medication. However, surgery may be recommended if the condition doesn't respond to conservative treatment or if the disc is impinging on the spinal cord and causing symptoms or signs of spinal cord dysfunction.

Surgical treatment consists of removing the damaged disc or discs, a procedure called a discectomy. It also may include removing the lamina, the upper part of the vertebrae, to give the spinal cord more room. In the past, discectomy was usually a major surgery done through a large incision. Today, it is more likely to be performed using small incisions, miniature instruments and a viewing instrument called an endoscope.