Introduction to Thoracic
Thoracic stenosis relates to a narrowing of the spinal canal in the mid to upper back. This impacts vertebrae T1-T12. Bone tissue, bone spurs, ligaments, or disc bulges can narrow the spinal canal, putting pressure on the nerves and spinal cord and causing pain and discomfort.
At the Indiana Spine Group in Carmel, Indianapolis, Westfield, and Kokomo, Indiana, fellowship-trained spine surgeon Dr. Peter Swiatek uses advanced solutions for thoracic stenosis tailored to your needs, helping you reclaim your well-being, comfort, and overall quality of life.
Thoracic stenosis occurs when the nerves in the thoracic portion of the spinal canal become compressed. Causes can include congenital issues, but most commonly it stems from degenerative spine disease caused by osteoarthritis, which can cause bone to take up extra space around the nerves over time.
Narrowing of the spinal canal in the thoracic spine may cause a range of symptoms, including:
At the Indiana Spine Group, Dr. Swiatek has at his disposal a variety of innovative surgical techniques to help alleviate pressure and pain and allow you to resume a healthy, active lifestyle. Surgical interventions for thoracic stenosis can include:
Starting treatment for thoracic stenosis in Indiana begins with a detailed consultation with Dr. Swiatek. During this initial session, you will be guided through the following key steps:
On the day of your thoracic stenosis treatment at the Indiana Spine Group in Carmel or one of our affiliate hospitals in Carmel, Indianapolis, Westfield, and Kokomo, Indiana, we will help you settle in to the pre-operative area, answer any last-minute questions, and briefly review your treatment plan. After moving to the operative room, you will be given general anesthesia to help you fall asleep and feel no pain or discomfort throughout your procedure.
Dr. Swiatek will then create an incision along the mid-back over the impacted vertebrae. After moving aside the muscles, the doctor will remove the lamina to address spinal canal narrowing. If the spine requires further stabilization, Dr. Swiatek may perform spinal fusion with bone grafting, screws, or rods. As a final step, the doctor will move the muscles back into place and close your incision with sutures.
Your Guide to Post-Thoracic Stenosis Care
Dr. Swiatek will provide clear aftercare instructions after your surgery and will remain available to respond to any questions or concerns that may arise as you heal. Tips for a seamless recovery process include:
Pricing for thoracic stenosis treatment in Carmel, Indianapolis, Westfield, and Kokomo, Indiana, may vary depending on the specific surgery Dr. Swiatek recommends and your insurance plan. Our billing department is available to answer any questions you may have regarding the cost of surgery.
Philosophy
Dr. Peter Swiatek in Carmel, Indianapolis, Westfield, and Kokomo, Indiana, is a fellowship-trained surgeon with extensive expertise in treating spine diseases and disorders, including disc herniations, degenerative cervical, thoracic, and lumbar disease, trauma, tumors, and spinal deformity. He also provides cutting-edge solutions for those who have experienced failed spine surgeries and revision spine procedures in the past.
Dr. Swiatek crafts each surgical plan to reflect individual goals and needs, always prioritizing conservative treatment options whenever viable. When surgery is required, he offers evidence-backed interventions that support well-being, mobility, and a full return to an active lifestyle.
Consistently emphasizing patient safety, Dr. Swiatek uses the latest technologies and treatment modalities in spine surgery, including robotics to improve surgical accuracy and motion-preservation (non-fusion) treatments.
Dr. Swiatek graduated magna cum laude from Harvard University with a degree in neurobiology, going on to graduate with honors from the University of Michigan Medical School in Ann Arbor, MI, where he was on the Dean’s commendation list for excellence in clinical skills.
Dr. Swiatek chose to train in orthopedic surgery at Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago, IL, ranked as one of the country’s most prestigious orthopedic and neurosurgical spine centers. After his residency, Dr. Swiatek pursued a competitive spine surgery fellowship at the world-renowned Rothman Institute and Thomas Jefferson University Hospital in Philadelphia, PA.
He also specializes in repairing failed spine surgeries and revision spine procedures. Dr. Swiatek tailors his treatment plans to the needs of each of his patients, with a focus on non-operative management whenever possible. When surgery is necessary.
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