Important Information About a Vertebral Fracture

Does the pain in your back make it difficult to be productive each day? If pain medicine does not give you much relief, you might want to make an appointment with an orthopedic surgeon to find out what the problem is. It is possible that you are dealing with fractured vertebrae, which can be treated via vertebroplasty. In this article, you will gain more insight about fractured vertebrae.

1. Reasons for Fractured Vertebrae

There are a few things that can lead to a vertebral fracture, such as taking a hard fall and landing on your back. If you have never taken a hard fall, it is possible that the fracture occurred from lifting heavy objects on a regular basis. You might even have a bone condition that is called osteoporosis, which makes it easier for bones to become fractured.

2. Tests That You Might Undergo

One of the first things that will be done is a review of your overall medical history. The orthopedic surgeon will make sure that there are not any conditions that could be responsible for your back pain. For instance, if you unknowingly have osteoporosis, the surgeon will want to treat it. A test referred to as dual-energy absorptiometry (DXA) will be done to find out about the mineral density of your bones. You may also be given an x-ray, as the surgeon will need to take a look at your vertebrae to determine whether any are shorter than they should be.

3. How Vertebroplasty Surgery Can Help with Pain Relief

Basically, the purpose of vertebroplasty surgery will be to strengthen your fractured bones. You will be placed under anesthesia so the surgeon can make two small incisions in your back. General anesthesia can be used if you would prefer being unconscious during the procedure. The incisions are needed for inserting tubes, which will allow the surgeon to send acrylic body cement into the fractured bones. The cement will harden up and give you pain relief as you begin to heal.

4. Risks Involved with Vertebroplasty Surgery

There are risks involved with any surgical procedure that is done. Some of the complications that can development with vertebroplasty include bleeding and infection. One of the more serious complications is paralysis. Keep in mind that it is rare that any complications will be experienced. Speak to an orthopedic surgeon about your back pain as soon as you are ready for some pain relief.

Talk to a professional, such as one from El Camino Center for Sports Medicine​, for more information.