Discectomy
A discectomy is a surgical procedure in which part or all of an intervertebral disc is removed from the spine. This is commonly done when a disc is herniated (slipped disc) and is causing symptoms of pain, nerve irritation or injury. In the thoracic area, discectomies are usually done through an incision on the side of the ribcage. A small window is created in the bone overlying the disc herniation. The nerve root is gently retracted to expose the disc herniation. The disc material is then removed using special instruments.
