Advanced Vertebroplasty
Alleviate pain and improve mobility with advanced vertebroplasty at The Forbury Clinic. Submit an enquiry for a consultation and explore our state-of-the-art treatment options.
Overview of Vertebroplasty
Vertebroplasty is a minimally invasive procedure designed to treat spinal fractures, particularly those caused by osteoporosis. This technique involves injecting medical-grade cement into the fractured vertebra to stabilise it, providing pain relief and restoring mobility. Addressing spinal fractures promptly is crucial for preventing further complications and improving quality of life. At The Forbury Clinic, we specialise in providing cutting-edge vertebroplasty with a focus on patient comfort and effective results. Contact us today to learn more and schedule a consultation.
What is Vertebroplasty?
Vertebroplasty is a medical procedure used to treat painful vertebral compression fractures in the spine. These fractures are often caused by osteoporosis, trauma, or tumors. During the procedure, a special medical-grade cement is injected into the fractured vertebra under imaging guidance. The cement hardens quickly, stabilising the fracture and providing significant pain relief. Common symptoms of vertebral compression fractures include severe back pain, reduced mobility, and deformity of the spine. Vertebroplasty is particularly beneficial for patients who have not responded to conservative treatments such as pain medication, rest, and physical therapy.
Causes and Risk Factors
Vertebral compression fractures, the primary condition treated by vertebroplasty, can be caused by several factors:
Causes
Osteoporosis:
The most common cause, where bones become weak and brittle.
Trauma:
Injuries from falls, accidents, or sports.
Cancer:
Metastatic cancer spreading to the spine can weaken the vertebrae.
Chronic Conditions:
Diseases like osteomyelitis can weaken the vertebrae.
Risk Factors
Age:
Older adults are more prone to osteoporosis and fractures.
Gender:
Women are at higher risk due to lower bone density.
Genetics:
Family history of osteoporosis or fractures.
Lifestyle:
Lack of physical activity, poor diet, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption.
Medications:
Long-term use of steroids can weaken bones.
Understanding these causes and risk factors helps in the early diagnosis and effective management of vertebral compression fractures.
Diagnosis
Diagnosing vertebral compression fractures and determining the suitability of vertebroplasty involves a comprehensive evaluation at The Forbury Clinic. The diagnostic process includes:
- Initial Consultation: Discussing your symptoms, medical history, and risk factors with a specialist to determine the need for further evaluation.
- Physical Examination: Assessing the spine for deformity, tenderness, and reduced mobility.
- Imaging Tests:
- X-rays: To identify fractures and assess bone health.
- MRI: To evaluate the extent of the fracture and check for nerve compression.
- CT Scan: To provide detailed images of the vertebrae and confirm the fracture.
These steps ensure a thorough and accurate diagnosis, aiding in the development of an effective treatment plan.
Treatment Options
Based on the diagnosis, various treatment options for vertebral compression fractures, including vertebroplasty, may be considered:
- Non-Surgical Treatments
- Minimally Invasive Procedures
- Surgical Options
Pain Management:
Medications such as NSAIDs or opioids to manage pain.
Physical Therapy:
Exercises to strengthen the back muscles and improve mobility.
Bracing:
Wearing a back brace to support the spine and reduce pain.
Activity Modification:
Avoiding activities that exacerbate symptoms.
Vertebroplasty:
Injecting medical-grade cement into the fractured vertebra to stabilise it and relieve pain. This outpatient procedure involves inserting a needle through the skin under imaging guidance.
Kyphoplasty:
Similar to vertebroplasty, but with an additional step of inflating a balloon to create space before injecting the cement.
Spinal Fusion:
For severe cases where multiple fractures are involved, this surgery stabilises the spine by fusing two or more vertebrae together.
Decompression Surgery:
Removing part of the vertebra or disc to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerves.
At The Forbury Clinic, our multidisciplinary team ensures that each patient receives the most appropriate and effective treatment, tailored to their specific needs and health goals.
Managing Vertebral Compression Fractures
Managing vertebral compression fractures involves a combination of medical treatments and lifestyle changes to control symptoms and improve overall quality of life. At The Forbury Clinic, we provide comprehensive care and guidance to help manage these fractures:
Healthy Diet:
Following a diet rich in calcium and vitamin D to support bone health.
Regular Exercise:
Engaging in weight-bearing and strength-training exercises to maintain bone density.
Avoiding Risk Factors:
Reducing smoking and alcohol consumption, and avoiding activities that increase the risk of falls.
Bone Health Monitoring:
Regular check-ups to monitor bone density and prevent future fractures.
These management strategies aim to complement medical treatments and provide a holistic approach to improving spine health and overall well-being.
Complications and Prognosis
While vertebroplasty is a highly effective treatment, it is important to be aware of potential complications and the prognosis for untreated vertebral compression fractures:
Complications
- Infection: Risk of infection at the injection site, manageable with antibiotics.
- Bleeding: Minor bleeding or bruising at the injection site.
- Pain: Mild pain or discomfort after the procedure, manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers.
- Cement Leakage: Rarely, the cement may leak into surrounding areas, potentially causing nerve irritation or other issues.
Prognosis
The prognosis for patients undergoing vertebroplasty is generally excellent. With timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment, many individuals can achieve significant improvements in pain and mobility. Regular follow-ups and ongoing management are crucial to prevent complications and maintain optimal spine health.
Why Choose The Forbury Clinic?
Choosing The Forbury Clinic for your vertebroplasty ensures you receive exceptional care from a team of experienced specialists. Our clinic is renowned for its expert medical staff who are dedicated to diagnosing and treating spinal conditions with precision and compassion. We use state-of-the-art diagnostic tools and the latest medical advancements to provide accurate diagnoses and innovative treatments tailored to your specific needs. Our patient-centered approach prioritises your comfort, privacy, and overall well-being, offering comprehensive support throughout your spine health journey. At The Forbury Clinic, you can trust that you are in capable hands, with a dedicated team committed to helping you achieve optimal spine health and a better quality of life.
