Percutaneous thoracic discectomy

George Rappard, MD

Percutaneous thoracic discectomy is a minimally invasive procedure for the treatment of upper back pain due to herniated disk. “Percutaneous” means that the procedure is performed through a tiny skin incision. Through the small incision a needle, wire and then a small metal tube are passed through the skin and then into the disc. Through the tube a small camera is placed, allowing the doctor to visualize the removal of diseased disc. X-rays are used to make sure that the devices are placed within the disc.

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