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  This Web site is meant for information purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Patients should consult with a physician to discuss treatment options. |
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What Is Vertebroplasty?
Vertebroplasty provides new hope for those suffering from severe back pain caused by osteoporosis or metastatic tumors. These conditions can cause bones to become brittle, resulting in weakened vertebra. Once this happens, the smallest activity can cause these vertebrae to collapse. These vertebral compression fractures cause extreme pain, which limits the possibility of normal movement or simple activities.
In the past, people who had compression fractures were provided with three treatment options: pain medications, bed rest and external bracing. While these conservative choices are still the first choice for reducing discomfort, if severe pain persists, patients can now be referred to a specially trained physician to see if Vertebroplasty will work for them.
Immediate Pain Reduction
Vertebroplasty stabilizes the collapsed vertebra using a specially formulated acrylic bone cement. It is a typically outpatient procedure (no hospitalization, no surgery) and requires only a local anesthetic. Once the area of the spine is numb, the doctor inserts one or two needles through a small incision. Review how it works for more information.
Most patients experience pain reduction within hours. Best of all, patients are able to resume their daily activities within 48 hours.
If you or a loved one may be suffering from pain associated with a vertebral compression fracture, we encourage you to discuss this with your primary care physician. Or if you prefer, we can help you can locate a specialist trained in vertebroplasty. |
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