Hi a thoracotomy is a huge surgery if i am thinking of the right thing and i am sure you are still in the healing process.
I had that same level disc removed using the less invasive Video assisted thoracic surgery. Not that it turned out easier as i had nerve damage to the nerve that controls the diaphragm muscle and thus loss of lung function with it. I do , however remember several months down the road that i still had the same annoying pain.
As far as i understand disc space is lost as we age as the discs loose water and shrink in a way. So do we. I have had extensive spine surgery with almost my whole spine fused and have lost several inches. i would say 3 inches for sure.
WElcome to the forum, i hope you continue healing and know we are here for all your spine and emotional needs
judy
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2007 ACDF 4-7
2008 hip , knee scope, hip replacement
2009 thoracic T-5 thru T-11fusion
2009 VATS T7-8, posterior only T11-12. removal of thoracic hard wear
2010 lung surgery
2010 T2-L2 kyphosis correction
2010 Kyphoplasty T-3, T-4
2011 Cervical osteotomy ,revision C4-T5
2011 Foot surgery
2011 Revision fusion T7 thru L4/laminectomy
2012 Hammertoe correction left foot
2012 Revision fusion T-12 thru L5
2012 Revision fusion L4-L5
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