Minimally Invasive Surgical Treatement for Compression Fractures

Vertebroplasty is minimally-invasive, outpatient procedure used to treat the pain associated with vertebral compression fractures caused by osteoporosis and tumoral lesions

It is an image-guided, minimally invasive surgical also used for treatment for pathological spinal fractures which is successful at alleviating the pain caused by compression fracture. It is accomplished by injecting orthopaedic cement through a needle into the fracture vertebra.

Indications

In elderly patients with vertebral fracture, secondary to Senile Osteoporosis, of vertebra, Haemangiomas of spine.

Patient Evaluation

First, the patient is evaluated clinically and basic blood investigations are carried out.X-ray of spine, and if needed, of other parts too, are also taken.MRI is optional, in the presence of neurological deficits, suspected malignancy .Medical evaluation, for medical disease is performed.

Vertebroplasty Procedure

Done under general anesthesia in the operation theater. A hallow needle is passed percutaneously through pedicles into the body of vertebra, which is fractured under image guidance. It is followed by injection of dye,to confirm if the needle has reached a safe spot in the affected spine.An orthopedic cement paste is injected through needle into the body of vertebra, under image guidance. Once adequate cement is injected, needle is removed.

Total time: 30min

Advantages of Vertebroplasty

• This technique provides immediate strength to the porous bone, rapid relief from pain and reduces the likelihood of fractures again.
• Immediate pain relief.
• Early mobilisation, so early return to normality.
• No brace/no bed rest.
• Minimal invasive procedure.

Risks

A small amount of cement can leak out of the vertebral body.Other possible complications include: infection, bleeding, rarely neurological symptom is noticed

Limitations of Vertebroplasty

• Not used for Herniated disc or arthritic back pain.Not a prophylactic treatment to prevent fracture.
• Not for correction of spinal deformities.
• Not for medically unfit patient and in healed fractures.

Vertebroplasty has been carried out in several cases at Wockhardt Hospitals, where there has been great success, in the ease of the procedure and in the outcome.

For consultation with our Bone and Joint doctors,please email enquiries@wockhardthospitals.net