Thoracic Herniated Disc Video. A herniated disc is a condition in which the annulus fibrosus (outer portion) of the vertebral disc is torn, enabling the nucleus (inner portion) to herniate or extrude through the fibers.he herniated disc material is similar to crab meat in constitution. During surgery, generally only the disc material compressing the nerve will be removed, and most (95%) of the intervertebral disc material is left in place.