Thoracic Procedures

Thoracic procedures relieve pain and restore function when problems develop in your upper and middle back. Fellowship-trained orthopedic spine surgeon, Brandon A. Ortega, MD, provides personalized treatments meeting your unique needs in Torrance and Long Beach, California, including specialized surgeries like kyphoplasty and spinal decompression/fusions. Contact his practice, Brandon A. Ortega, MD, if you have persistent midback pain.

What are thoracic procedures?

The thoracic spine consists of 12 vertebrae in the middle segment of the vertebral column, located between the cervical spine (neck) and the lumbar spine (lower back). The thoracic spine is unique in that each vertebra articulates with a pair of ribs, forming part of the rib cage and providing structural support to the chest cavity. Injuries or conditions affecting the thoracic spine can lead to symptoms such as mid-back pain, difficulty breathing, or neurological deficits depending on the severity and location of the issue. Thoracic spinal procedures encompass a range of surgical interventions aimed at addressing various conditions affecting the thoracic spine.

Which thoracic procedure might I need?

Common thoracic procedures performed by Dr. Ortega: 

Kyphoplasty

Kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive procedures performed to treat vertebral compression fractures in the thoracic spine. This procedure involves using a balloon-like device to restore vertebral body height and then injecting bone cement into the fractured vertebra to stabilize it and relieve pain.

Thoracic Discectomy

This procedure involves the removal of a herniated or degenerated disc in the thoracic spine that is causing compression on the spinal cord or nerves.

Thoracic Laminectomy

This procedure involves the removal of part or all of the lamina (the bony arch that covers the spinal canal) to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerves.

Thoracic Fusion

This procedure involves joining two or more vertebrae together using bone grafts, screws, rods, or other implants. It is typically performed to stabilize the spine and prevent abnormal movement or instability due to conditions such as spinal fractures, deformities, or degenerative disc disease.

Will my thoracic procedure be minimally invasive?

Dr. Ortega specializes in minimally invasive spine surgery in the thoracic spine. MIS surgery offers numerous benefits for patients, including faster recovery, reduced postoperative pain, and improved outcomes compared to traditional open spine surgery. However, it is essential for patients to discuss their specific condition with Dr. Ortega to determine the most appropriate approach for their specific needs.

Contact Brandon A. Ortega, MD, today to get skilled care for midback pain.