Like any other bone in the body, spinal bones can fracture and need medical attention to heal correctly. Unfortunately, using a cast as you would for a broken arm or leg is not a simple option. However, vertebroplasty is an option to repair and stabilize spinal fractures to relieve pain and offer support to the affected vertebrae.
Spinal compression fractures are usually a symptom of osteoporosis. As the vertebrae weakens due to the effects of this disease, pressure can cause small cracks or fractures in the vertebrae, which can collapse. This can cause severe pain, disability and loss of height for the patient, requiring medical treatment. One minimally invasive option is vertebroplasty, which can give strength and stabilization to the spine. At Atlanta Spine & Orthopaedics, we offer effective procedures to our patients suffering from spinal fractures.
Minimally Invasive Vertebroplasty
Vertebroplasty is completed through a very small incision at the point of the spinal fracture. Patients are usually put under general anesthesia or sedation while the procedure is performed. To repair, stabilize and strengthen the fractured vertebrae, orthopaedic cement is placed into the vertebral body using a bone needle. Dr. Bhatti uses advanced imaging to guide the needle into place, administering the cement exactly where it is needed. The medical bone cement quickly adheres and hardens into place, giving the stabilization needed for reduced pain and improved function. The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis, with most patients able to be up and walking within a few hours.
If you have been diagnosed with a spinal fracture, find out if vertebroplasty could be a solution to stabilize your fracture and relieve your pain. Contact us today at Atlanta Spine & Orthopaedics to schedule your appointment with Dr. Bhatti to consult whether minimally invasive vertebroplasty is right for you.