Is A Vertebroplasty Right For You?

7 November 2016
 Categories: Health & Medical , Blog

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A spinal compression fracture can cause constant pain and impact a person's everyday life. Depending on the severity of the condition, your doctor might recommend undergoing vertebroplasty. If your doctor has recommended the outpatient procedure, here is what you need to know.  

What Is a Vertebroplasty?

A vertebroplasty is a procedure that is designed to help stabilize the bone that is impacted by the spinal compression fracture. To stabilize the bone, a needle is injected into the affected bone and cement is placed in the space to help secure the bone. The improvement in your condition should be noticeable in a short period of time.  

Following the procedure, your doctor might recommend that you undergo physical therapy. Spinal compression fractures can impact mobility and after the procedure, therapy can help to improve mobility.  

Are There Any Complications?

As with other medical procedures, there are some possible complications with the vertebroplasty. Complications are rare, but it is important that you are aware of the risks so that you can make an informed decision regarding whether or not the procedure is right for you.  

The complications are similar to those for other minimally invasive procedures. You could experience numbness, infection, and the development of blood clots. If you are at a greater risk for complications, your doctor will take precautions before the procedure to lower the chances of them occurring. For instance, if you have a higher risk of blood clots, the doctor could prescribe a blood thinner before the day of the procedure.  

What Happens After the Procedure?

Unless there is a complication, it is likely that you will be allowed to return home on the same day of the procedure. It is important that you have someone to drive you home. Although the procedure is minimally invasive, you can experience soreness at the injection site, which can make sitting uncomfortable.  

To help with the pain, you can apply an ice pack to the affected area. The ice pack will help prevent the transmission of nerve signals in your back. You can also take an over-the-counter pain reliever to help with the discomfort felt.  

There are other possible procedures that you can undergo to help treat a spinal compression fracture. Consult with your doctor to learn the best possible method of alleviating your symptoms and treating the fracture. Remember to keep your doctor informed of any changes to your health that you experience before and after treatment.  For more information, check out a clinic like Southwest Florida Neurosurgical & Rehab Associates.