Vertebral augmentation refers to a group of procedures deployed in the treatment of collapsed vertebral fractures. Collapsed vertebral fractures may be caused by minor trauma to the back where a patient has osteoporosis (a condition that makes the bones weaker). It could also be due to major trauma, say from an accident. It is usually accompanied by pain and loss of vertebral height.
We perform vertebral augmentation for patients with vertebral compression fractures where pain and vertebral height loss may be a problem. We reserve this treatment for patients with severe pain or height loss.
The procedure is an outpatient treatment hence most patients can leave the hospital on the same day of treatment. Bedrest and minimal physical activity is advised for the first 24 hours at least.
Vertebral augmentation is contraindicated in patients with coagulation disorders
Yes, it is. We ensure that only patients in severe pain and who will benefit immensely from the procedure undergo it. Our seasoned experts limit the size of the incision to under an inch. Also, the cannula for the injection of the line cement is inserted under fluoroscopy. .
Following the procedure, you may be observed for about an hour before you are cleared to go home. Most patients report significant relief within 24 to 48 hours.
There are two major types of vertebral augmentation which are vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty.
A third and far less common option is called radio frequency-targeted vertebral augmentation which does not use the balloon but introduces the bone cement in small volumes to prevent adverse outcomes like leakages or spinal cord trauma.
There are some potential risks associated with vertebral augmentation. However, they rarely occur. A major one is the potential for bone cement to seep out of the vertebra into surrounding soft tissue or impinge on the spinal cord. Depending on the amount of material that leaks, this can go from moderate to severe pain and neurological issues.
Allergy to contrast media for fluoroscopy is also a potential risk. Patients must be cleared to have an excellent renal function since contrast media can reduce renal function.
Minor issues like pain at the site of injection will resolve over a few days. Ice packs and analgesics come in handy in managing these.
Before you undergo the procedure, we will need to complete some blood work and X-ray examinations.
Unless we need to observe you for longer, you should be out of the hospital some 2 to 3 hours after your procedure. So you can come along with a book or a pair of headphones to keep you occupied.
Since the procedure is minimally invasive, you can return to most of your daily activities on the same day. If you like, you can come to the hospital with a friend or relative to drive you home once you’re done.
At Advanced Medical Treatment Center, we understand that pain can be debilitating and impact every aspect of your life. That’s why we take a comprehensive approach to pain management and treatment, providing a wide range of services tailored to your unique needs.
