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Thoracic Procedures in Carmel, IN Thoracic Laminectomy

Thoracic Laminectomy

Relieve Pressure on the Thoracic Spinal Cord

Thoracic laminectomy is a procedure performed by spine surgeons like Dr. Swiatek in Carmel, Indianapolis, Westfield, and Kokomo, IN, to decompress the spinal cord in the thoracic spine. It helps to alleviate pressure on the spinal cord caused by a narrowing of the spinal canal. This leads to relief from a range of symptoms, including pain, numbness, weakness, tingling, balance issues, and loss of mobility.

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What Is a Thoracic Laminectomy?

Thoracic laminectomy, also called open decompression, is a surgical procedure in which the surgeon removes a portion of the bone, or lamina, that is causing pressure on the spinal cord. The procedure is typically indicated in the treatment of conditions such as spinal stenosis or disc herniation that result in a narrowing of the spinal canal and nerve compression.

During surgery, Dr. Swiatek will make an incision in the back, allowing him to remove a portion of the bone and thickened tissue that has led to pressure on the spinal nerves. This helps relieve chronic pain and improve quality of life and well-being. Afterward, he can perform spinal fusion to stabilize the spine with bone grafting, rods, plates, and screws if indicated. Dr. Swiatek would discuss the need for screws and rods during the preoperative evaluation.

Who Are the Best Candidates for a Thoracic Laminectomy?

To determine whether you are a good candidate for thoracic laminectomy, Dr. Swiatek will conduct a thorough medical review and physical assessment, along with diagnostic testing. In general, the procedure is suggested for those who:

  • Have not achieved their desired results with conservative treatments in the past.
  • Are experiencing significant mid-back conditions, such as thoracic spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal), a bulging or herniated disc that puts pressure on the spinal cord, or a spinal tumor or fracture.
  • Have noticed a worsening of neurological symptoms, such as ongoing weakness, tingling, or numbness in the legs, torso, or chest.
  • Are dealing with mobility concerns, like trouble walking, standing, or maintaining balance.

What Are the Benefits of a Thoracic Laminectomy?

Undergoing a thoracic laminectomy with fellowship-trained spine surgeon Dr. Swiatek in Indiana comes with a range of compelling advantages, including the following:

  • Alleviates spinal cord and nerve compression
  • Treats symptoms like numbness, tingling, and weakness in the legs and trunk
  • Enhances mobility and balance
  • Restores comfort and quality of life
  • Puts a stop to neurological decline
  • Targets the root causes of pain, such as spinal stenosis, herniated discs, or tumors
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How to Begin Your Thoracic Laminectomy Journey

To get started with a thoracic laminectomy in Indiana, you will first meet with Dr. Swiatek and his team for a comprehensive and personalized consultation. This introductory visit entails:

  • An in-depth medical and physical assessment, including diagnostic testing such as X-rays, MRIs, and CT scans.
  • A discussion regarding your goals, expectations, and pain levels.
  • Precise, honest answers to all your questions.
  • Information about the risks, downtime, and other details of the surgery.
  • The creation of an individualized surgical plan.
  • Guidelines to follow before and after your procedure.

What to Expect on the Day of Thoracic Laminectomy

On the day of surgery, anesthesia will put the patient to sleep so they feel no pain during the procedure. Dr. Swiatek makes an incision over the affected vertebra. He will retract the muscles to the side to expose the lamina (the back of the vertebra and roof of the spinal canal). Using delicate instruments, the lamina is removed to gain access to the spinal canal and create optimal space for the spinal cord. If the procedure is to remove a tumor or infection, Dr. Swiatek will address these issues at this point. In some cases, screws and rods are needed to stabilize the segment. This will have been discussed before surgery. Finally, the muscles are moved back into place, and the incision is closed from the inside-out with sutures.

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Thoracic Laminectomy Recovery

Your Guide to Post-Thoracic Laminectomy Care

Regardless of whether you undergo open thoracic laminectomy or a less invasive version of the surgery, you will be placed in our recovery suite and carefully monitored, receiving prescription painkillers as needed. You can expect to be up and walking within a day or so, which will help improve circulation and reduce the risk of blood clotting. You will still have activity and lifting restrictions for 6-12 weeks. At 6 weeks post-op, Dr. Swiatek will evaluate you during a follow-up session and review your X-rays to assess your healing progress. Most patients resume the bulk of their normal schedules by 12 weeks.

How Much Does Thoracic Laminectomy Cost in Carmel, Indianapolis, Westfield, and Kokomo?

Thoracic laminectomy pricing in the Carmel, Indianapolis, Westfield, and Kokomo area can vary. Most insurance plans cover thoracic laminectomy. Our billing department is available to answer your questions as they relate to cost.

Philosophy

Why Choose Dr. Swiatek?

Based in the Carmel, Indianapolis, Westfield, and Kokomo area of Indiana, Dr. Peter Swiatek is a board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopaedic spine surgeon with consummate skill and expertise in treating spine diseases and disorders. He targets a range of conditions, including disc herniations, degenerative cervical, thoracic, and lumbar disease, trauma, tumors, and spinal deformity. Additionally, Dr. Swiatek is known for offering innovative solutions for patients who have previously experienced failed spine surgeries and revision spine procedures. ​

Dr. Swiatek develops each surgical plan to reflect patient goals, always selecting conservative options whenever viable. When surgery is the next right step, he leverages evidence-backed interventions that support well-being, mobility, and a full return to an active lifestyle.​

Devoted to patient safety, Dr. Swiatek uses the latest technologies and treatment modalities in spine surgery, such as robotics to enhance surgical precision and motion-preservation (non-fusion) treatments.

Training Background

Dr. Swiatek graduated magna cum laude from Harvard University with a degree in neurobiology. He then graduated with honors from the University of Michigan Medical School in Ann Arbor, MI, and was named to the Dean’s commendation list for excellence in clinical skills.

Dr. Swiatek pursued his orthopedic surgery training at Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago, IL, ranked as one of the most elite and renowned orthopedic and neurosurgical spine centers in the United States. After residency, he completed a competitive spine surgery fellowship at the prestigious Rothman Institute and Thomas Jefferson University Hospital in Philadelphia, PA. Dr. Swiastek is also apart of AAOS, NASS, and the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery (ABOS).

Thoracic Laminectomy FAQ’S

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Case Studies

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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