Vertebroplasty

Vertebroplasty is a minimally invasive procedure designed to treat vertebral compression fractures. These fractures are often caused by osteoporosis but can also result from trauma or cancer. In Arizona, Red Butte Pain Solutions offers vertebroplasty to provide relief for patients suffering from debilitating back pain. This procedure stabilizes the spine, reduces pain, and improves quality of life.

Vertebroplasty is a procedure where medical-grade bone cement is injected into fractured vertebrae. The goal is to stabilize the spine and reduce pain. The cement hardens quickly, providing immediate support to the fractured bone. This stabilization helps relieve pain caused by the fracture, allowing patients to return to normal activities sooner.

Who Can Benefit From Vertebroplasty?

Vertebroplasty is typically recommended for patients with painful vertebral compression fractures. These fractures are most commonly caused by osteoporosis, a condition that weakens bones and makes them more prone to breaking. However, it can also help patients who have fractures from cancerous lesions or spinal trauma.

In Arizona, many older adults and cancer patients suffer from compression fractures. At Red Butte Pain Solutions, we work with these patients to determine if vertebroplasty is the right treatment. Candidates for vertebroplasty typically have persistent back pain that hasn’t responded to conservative treatments like pain medication, bracing, or physical therapy.

The vertebroplasty procedure is done on an outpatient basis. The process typically takes about an hour. Here’s what patients can expect:

Preparation:

The patient is positioned face-down, and a local anesthetic is applied to numb the area. Sedation may also be used to keep the patient comfortable.

Imaging:

Using X-ray or fluoroscopic guidance, the physician precisely locates the fractured vertebra.

Cement Injection:

A small needle is inserted into the fractured vertebra. Bone cement is injected into the fracture to stabilize the bone.

Hardening:

The cement hardens quickly, often within 10 to 15 minutes, stabilizing the fracture.

Patients can usually go home the same day and experience immediate pain relief. Some may need a few days to feel the full benefits.

Vertebroplasty is especially beneficial for those in Arizona due to the prevalence of osteoporosis and other bone-weakening conditions in older populations. At Red Butte Pain Solutions, we see many patients who have fractures from osteoporosis and need immediate pain relief. The dry, sunny climate of Arizona also means that people are often active well into their later years, making fast recovery from fractures even more essential. Vertebroplasty allows patients to return to their active lifestyles quickly without the prolonged recovery times associated with traditional surgery.

The benefits of vertebroplasty are numerous for Arizona residents dealing with spinal compression fractures:

• Rapid Pain Relief: Many patients experience a significant reduction in pain within 24 to 48 hours.
• Quick Recovery: Because it’s a minimally invasive procedure, recovery time is short. Most patients can return to normal activities within days.
• Minimally Invasive: Vertebroplasty doesn’t involve large incisions or lengthy hospital stays, making it a less risky option for older adults.
• Prevents Further Collapse: Stabilizing the vertebra with cement prevents the bone from collapsing further, which could worsen the fracture.

Vertebroplasty offers Arizona patients a way to regain mobility and reduce their reliance on pain medication. At Red Butte Pain Solutions, we’ve seen the life-changing effects this procedure can have for those suffering from chronic back pain.

Recovery from vertebroplasty is usually quick and straightforward. After the procedure, patients are monitored for a few hours and can typically go home the same day.

Patients are advised to avoid strenuous activities for at least 24 hours but can usually resume light activities within a day or two. At Red Butte Pain Solutions, we emphasize the importance of following post-procedure guidelines to ensure the best outcome. In many cases, patients experience significant pain relief within a few days of the procedure.

As with any medical procedure, vertebroplasty does carry some risks. However, complications are rare. Some potential risks include infection, bleeding, or cement leakage outside the vertebra. At Red Butte Pain Solutions, we take every precaution to minimize these risks by using advanced imaging technology and carefully monitoring patients during and after the procedure.

Patients in Arizona should also be aware that while vertebroplasty is highly effective for treating pain from compression fractures, it may not be suitable for all types of fractures. Our team will perform a thorough evaluation to determine if vertebroplasty is the right choice for each patient.

Patients in Arizona may wonder about the differences between vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty, another procedure used to treat compression fractures. Both procedures are similar in that they involve injecting bone cement into fractured vertebrae. However, kyphoplasty includes an additional step: a balloon is inserted into the vertebra before the cement to create a cavity and restore height to the collapsed bone.

At Red Butte Pain Solutions, we offer both procedures and will help patients decide which option is best based on the severity of their fracture and overall health.

In addition to treating the fracture, vertebroplasty also plays a role in protecting future bone health. After the procedure, our team at Red Butte Pain Solutions works closely with patients to address the underlying causes of their fractures. In cases of osteoporosis, we coordinate with primary care physicians and endocrinologists to manage bone health through medications, diet, and lifestyle changes. Preventing future fractures is key to maintaining mobility and quality of life.

Arizona patients, especially those with osteoporosis, should take steps to strengthen their bones and avoid future fractures. Our team can help guide patients in developing a long-term plan for bone health.

At Red Butte Pain Solutions in Chandler, Arizona, we are committed to providing top-tier care for patients with vertebral compression fractures. Our team of experienced physicians is dedicated to helping patients find relief from back pain and regain their mobility.

We understand that living with chronic pain can affect every aspect of your life. That’s why we focus on offering personalized care plans tailored to each patient’s needs. Whether you’re dealing with osteoporosis, cancer-related fractures, or spinal trauma, vertebroplasty could be the solution to your pain.

If you’re suffering from back pain caused by a vertebral compression fracture, vertebroplasty could provide the relief you’ve been looking for. Contact Red Butte Pain Solutions in Chandler, Arizona, to schedule a consultation. Our team will work with you to determine if vertebroplasty is right for your condition.

By choosing vertebroplasty, Arizona patients can regain control over their lives and experience long-lasting pain relief. Don’t let a compression fracture keep you from enjoying life. At Red Butte Pain Solutions, we’re here to help you on your journey to recovery.