Degenerative spine disorders and spinal tumors can profoundly affect mobility, neurological function, and overall quality of life. When symptoms persist despite appropriate conservative care, surgical treatment may be necessary to relieve neural compression, restore stability, and protect the spinal cord.
Spinal tumors present complex clinical challenges that require precise diagnosis, disciplined surgical judgment, and close coordination across specialties. Whether benign or malignant, these tumors may affect the spinal column, spinal cord, surrounding nerves, and supporting tissues. The consequences can include progressive pain, neurological deficits, and structural instability.
Patients seeking evaluation for complex spinal disorders in Irvine, CA often prioritize experience, academic rigor, and thoughtful clinical judgment. Dr. Hao-Hua Wu, MD is a Harvard-trained orthopedic spine surgeon at UCI Health specializing in the surgical and non-surgical management of disorders affecting the cervical, thoracic, and lumbar spine.
Mid back pain is commonly attributed to muscle strain or posture. In some cases, however, symptoms originate from structural changes within the spine. A thoracic disc herniation occurs when one of the intervertebral discs in the thoracic spine protrudes into the spinal canal and compresses nearby neural structures, including the spinal cord. Because the thoracic region forms the central portion of the spinal column and is closely associated with the rib cage, even a small disc abnormality can have meaningful neurological implications.
Spine surgery referrals require careful judgment, clear communication, and an understanding of when operative intervention is truly warranted. Primary care physicians and specialists in Yorba Linda, Fullerton, Placentia, and Anaheim frequently encounter patients with persistent neck or back symptoms, progressive neurological findings, or structural abnormalities on imaging that prompt consideration of surgical evaluation.
UCI Health Irvine
19200 Jamboree Rd
Suite 4200
Irvine, CA 92612
UCI Health Orange
101 The City Drive South
Pavilion 3 Building 29A
Orange, CA 92868
UCI Health Yorba Linda
18637 Yorba Linda Blvd.
Yorba Linda,
CA 92886
