I think the minimally invasive surgery is limited to only some specific cases and depends greatly upon the problem and the location of the problem within the thoracic region.

Many of the problems that are seen in the thoracic region may not be accessed in an endoscopic minimally invasive approach.

Thoracic spinal surgery can be VERY dangerous due to the risk of damage to the aorta, lungs, and heart. It is definitely not a surgical procedure to enter into lightly.

Surgical procedures for cervical or lumbar spinal issues are much less risky than thoracic.

Oops. I began reading this thread from the beginning and did not realize it was an OLD thread since there were some NEW posts until after I began my comment and saw the date of Keano's post. Sorry.

To Tommo,

Were any of YOUR spinal surgeries endoscopic? To have so many back surgeries is awful. Are you still experiencing pain from the thoracic region of your spine? What is your prognosis and current treatment plan?