The associated pain due to compression fractures of vertebrae could be particularly distressing and, in some circumstances, completely disabling. Osteoporosis, trauma, or even cancer might contribute to the fractures that may severely limit mobility and one’s quality of life.
Vertebroplasty is a minimally invasive orthopedic procedure aimed at achieving the stabilization of vertebrae with fractures while diminishing the pain and enhancing the strength of the spinal structure. This technique has attained wide acceptance as a promising and safe approach for treating patients with severe back pain resulting from spinal compressive fractures.
In the following blog, we will see the definition of vertebroplasty, the mechanism involved, how and who stands to benefit from it, its procedure, the pros and cons, and the recovery process.
What Is Vertebroplasty?
Vertebroplasty is a spinal surgery which involves percutaneous injection of medical-grade bone cement into a fractured vertebra in order to treat vertebral compression fractures (VCFs). The cement is specialized and can efficiently immobilize the vertebra as it hardens quickly subsequently minimizing the pain experienced by the patients.
It is very effective for osteoporotic fractures, fractures because of spinal tumors and from trauma. Shear strains associated with opening of traditional surgeries are reduced to a minimum since modification of the structural framework of the spine is not done.
Who Needs Vertebroplasty?
Not everyone can benefit from vertebroplasty procedures. It is commonly used when:
- Pain exists due to vertebral fractures.
- Pain continues despite attempts to use medications, rest, or physical therapy.
- The fracture is getting worse and leads to spinal instability.
- There is significant loss of mobility because of pain.
- The fracture stems from osteoporosis, cancer, or trauma.
People with old fractures or fractures along with nerve compression may not suit the procedure well. In such scenarios, alternate procedure methods such as kyphoplasty, or spinal fusion may be advisable.
How Is Vertebroplasty Performed?
The vertebroplasty procedure technique is often conducted on an outpatient basis. Typically, one hour is needed per vertebra that is treated. Here’s what happens:
- Preparation – The client lays facial down, after which local anaesthesia is administered. Some forms may require mild sedation
- Needling – During the skin action, a thin needle is drawn through to the vertebra that is fractured. Fluoroscopy (real time x-ray imaging) allows for guidance.
- Cement Injection – The bone cement is injected at a slow pace into the fractured vertebra, stabilizing and filling in the cracks along the bone.
- Hardening Process – Within 10 to 15 minutes the cement solidifies, providing support.
- Recovery – Less than 24 hours after the procedure is performed, the patient reaches a recovery stage and can be discharged.
However, because the procedure does not involve incisions or the need for stitches, the time required before a patient can return to normal activities is significantly reduced and post-procedure complications are minimized.
Benefits of Vertebroplasty
- Immediate Pain Relief – In most cases, patients begin to experience a notable reduction in pain within one to two days.
- Minimally Invasive – The procedure does not require major surgery, there is little need for sutured incisions, and patients do not have to spend time in the hospital afterwards.
- Restores Stability – Vertebroplasty assists in halting further vertebral collapse and integrity disfigurement.
- Improves Mobility – Patients find that their day-to-day activities can be taken without fear of reinjury or aggravation much sooner.
- Low Risk & High Success Rates – When compared with procedures that are carried out by inadequately trained practitioners, the chances of complications with trained specialists are greatly reduced.
Vertebroplasty treatment is very useful for older aged patients as it decreases chances of getting immobile due to fractures caused by osteoporosis.
Possible Risks & Complications
Although vertebroplasty is a safe and effective procedure when carried out by a medical expert, there are always some candid risks, including:
- Cement Leakage – There is always a chance of bone cement leaking outside the vertebra. When this occurs, there may be nerve irritation or injury in the nearby area. However, with accurate technique, this is seldom a problem.
- Infection or Blleding – At the injection point, this is highly unlikely but possible.
- Nerve Damage – Incorrect usage of a needle can lead to problems with nerves in close proximity.
- No Pain Relief – Some people fail to notice significant improvement in rare cases.
To ensure minimal complications, the physician undertaking the procedure ought to be an experienced interventional pain specialist with the use of advanced imaging guidance.
Recovery & Aftercare
- Immediate Rest – Light activities can be resumed within two days after the procedure while rest should be observed for a few hours afterwards.
- Pain Management – Relate Soreness at the injection site can be easily managed using over-the-counter pain relievers.
- Activity Modifications – Avoid heavy lifting and vigorous activities for a few weeks.
- Physical Therapy – Strengthening exercises may be prescribed namely for the spine’s health improvement while preventing further damages.
- Regular Check-ups – Follow up visits confirm that the vertebrae heal properly.
Majority of patients tend to experience improvement in mobility and quality of life a few days after the procedure.
Conclusion: Why Select Solace Pain and Spine Management Centre?
If the case is that one suffers from severe back pain due to vertebral compression fractures, timely intervention is crucial. At Solace Pain and Spine Management Centre, advanced vertebroplasty procedures are offered and performed by specialized pain management physicians alongside interventional radiologists.
- Technology that is advanced and ensures safe and precise procedures.
- Comprehensive and detailed treatment plans that provide and maintain pain relief.
- Professional and dignified care with guidance at every stage.
Solace Pain and Spine Management Centre’s aim is to help improve your mobility, reduce pain, and improve the quality of your life with the most effective, and least invasive, options. Seek for a consultation today and move a step closer to a life free from pain.
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