COMPRESSION FRACTURES TREATED WITH Vertebroplasty

Compression fractures are small breaks or cracks in the bones that make up your spine (vertebrae).  Fractures in the bone cause the spine to weaken and collapse. Over time, these fractures can lead to

• A hunched posture
• Loss of height as the vertebrae compress and the back curves
• Back pain which can come on suddenly and last a long time (chronic).  It usually develops anywhere between the shoulders and the lower back
• Decreased mobility or flexibility in the spine. You may not be able to twist or bend over
• Pinched nerve or nerve damage, which can cause tingling and numbness in the back

Compression fractures often result from osteoporosis but can be caused by trauma such as a car crash, sports injury, or some type of high impact 

What is a vertebroplasty?

This pain treatment is an injection of a special bone cement mixture into the fractured bone through a hollow needle.

• You will lie face down and receive local anesthetic to numb the area
• Twilight sedation will be given to so that you are unable to feel pain and can relax
• To target the precise area for injection, fluoroscopy (live X-ray) imaging is used
• The bone cement is mixed in a specialized device then immediately injected

Am I a Candidate?

After an evaluation and reviewing X-ray or MRI imaging, Dr. Anwar will confirm if a vertebroplasty is indeed the best option.  Our billing department will obtain insurance authorization if required, and then schedule your procedure as soon as possible.

How long does the procedure take?

All procedures are outpatient and performed in our Joint Commission Accredited surgical suite in our Frankfort office. Vertebroplasty procedures can take approximately 1-2 hours to complete, but after a short observation you will be able to return home the same day.  You should have someone drive you, particularly if you have twilight sedation, and taking it easy is recommended.  If the procedure site is sore you can apply some ice, but always call the office if you have increased pain or other concerns.