Thoracic Discogenic Syndrome

Overview

4 out of 5 (2 Reviews)

Credits

1.00

Post Assessment Questions

5

Start Date

1 Jan 2021

Last Review Date

20 Mar 2024

Expiration Date

31 Dec 2023

Estimated Time To Finish

60 Minutes


 
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Activity Description

Thoracic discogenic syndrome is an uncommon source of back pain characterized by unique and nonspecific symptoms. Most thoracic disk herniations are without symptoms and are typically found incidentally during magnetic resonance imaging. Individuals experiencing symptoms related to thoracic discogenic syndrome may present with pain in the chest wall, epigastric region, and upper extremities, and sometimes in the groin or lower extremities. This can lead clinicians to explore alternative diagnoses such as lumbosacral radiculopathy, myocardial infarction, nephrolithiasis, and cholecystitis.

The thoracic spine's particular orientation, structure, and function within the vertebral column contribute to the low incidence of thoracic discogenic syndrome. The majority of cases are due to degeneration of the intervertebral disks. However, some may be due to trauma typically caused by twisting or torsional movements when participating in sports that require axial rotation of the spine. Management of thoracic discogenic syndrome is primarily conservative but becomes surgical if a patient presents with myelopathy or fails conservative measures. The anatomy of the thoracic spine makes surgical decompression technically challenging, posing a higher risk of spinal cord compromise. All patients with thoracic discogenic syndrome require a rehabilitative program focusing on proper body mechanics, posture, and strengthening of the back, abdominal, and gluteal muscles. This activity describes the pathophysiology, evaluation, and management of thoracic discogenic syndrome, providing healthcare professionals with the knowledge and tools to improve patient care for this complex condition while highlighting the role of the interprofessional team in the care of affected patients.


Target Audience

This activity has been designed to meet the educational needs of physicians.

Learning Objectives

At the conclusion of this activity, the learner will be better able to:

  • Develop the ability to recognize the clinical manifestations and diagnostic features indicative of thoracic discogenic syndrome. 

  • Select appropriate diagnostic modalities, such as imaging techniques and pain mapping, to confirm thoracic discogenic syndrome, considering the limitations and benefits of each method.

  • Implement evidence-based guidelines for managing thoracic discogenic syndrome, including implementing conservative and interventional treatment.

  • Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team, including physical therapists, pain specialists, and surgeons, to facilitate a multidisciplinary approach to diagnosing, treating, and ongoing care of patients with thoracic discogenic syndrome.

Disclosures

The Campbell University Jerry M. Wallace School of Osteopathic Medicine (CUSOM) requires instructors, planners, managers, and other individuals who are in a position to control the content of this activity to disclose any real or apparent conflict of interest they or their immediate family may have as related to the content of this activity. All identified conflicts of interest are thoroughly vetted by CUSOM for resolution, to ensure fair balance, scientific objectivity of studies mentioned in the materials or used as the basis for content, and appropriateness of patient care recommendations.

CUSOM will identify, review, and resolve all conflicts of interest that faculty, authors, activity directors, planners, managers, peer reviewers, or relevant staff disclose prior to an educational activity being delivered to learners. Disclosure of a relationship is not intended to suggest or condone bias in any presentation but is made to provide participants with information that might be of potential importance to their evaluation of a presentation. Disclosure information for authors, editors, planners, peer reviewers, and/or relevant staff is provided with this activity.

Continuing Education Accreditation Information

 

 

The Campbell University Jerry M. Wallace School of Osteopathic Medicine (CUSOM) is accredited by the American Osteopathic Association to provide osteopathic continuing medical education for physicians. CUSOM designates this enduring material for a maximum of 1.00 AOA Category 1 B Credits and will report CME credits commensurate with the extent of the physician's participation in the activity.

Cancellation Policy: Cancellations must be received in writing and a money back guarantee is provided if not completely satisfied.

  • StatPearls and CUSOM reserve the right to cancel any course due to unforeseen circumstances. StatPearls and CUSOM will not be responsible for other expenses incurred by the participant in the unlikely event that the program is canceled.

Equal Opportunity

  • StatPearls and CUSOM are Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action / Equal Access Institutions. 

Medium or Media Used:

  • Computer Requirements:  Internet Access
  • E-mail Address

Instructions for Credit

  1. Register for the activity and create a StatPearls login.     
  2. Review the required accreditation information:  Target audience, learning objectives and disclosure information.
  3. Complete the entire self-study activity.
  4. Complete the post-test assessments.
  5. Successfully pass the post-test with a minimum score of 100%.
  6. Complete the evaluation form.
  7. Obtain a certificate.

StatPearls and CUSOM adheres to AOA Standards regarding commercial support of continuing medical education. It is the policy of StatPearls and Campbell that the faculty and planning committee disclose real or apparent conflicts of interest relating to the topics of this educational activity, that relevant conflict(s) of interest are resolved and also that authors and editors will disclose any unlabeled/unapproved use of drug(s) or device(s) during their presentation. Detailed disclosure will be made prior to starting the activity.

The information provided at this CME/CE activity is for continuing education purposes only and is not meant to substitute for the independent medical/clinical judgment of a healthcare provider relative to diagnostic and treatment options of a specific patient’s medical condition.

This course is intended for osteopathic physicians who wish to earn AOA CME credit. Take this version of the course to ensure you receive appropriate credit.

 

 
 

Reviews

Christopher S. on 12/8/2022

Rachel E. on 12/14/2022

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