There are some surgical procedures that can be done to alleviate the pain associated with vertebral fracture.
- Kyphoplasty. In this procedure, a needle is placed into the fractured bone to create a tunnel. Through this tunnel a small probe with an inflatable balloon on the tip is placed and the balloon inflated. This creates a small cave inside. Next another needle is placed into this cave and cement injected to fill the fractured bone and stop it from causing pain. X-Ray is used to ensure correct placement of needles and cement. The risk is low, especially when compared to the high success rate and relief the patient feels.
- Spinal Fusion Surgery. This procedure involves fusing two vertebrae together to prevent them from moving, as the movement is what causes pain. Because this procedure is more invasive, it is typically a last resort for relieving back pain. Spinal fusion surgery involves using metal bolts to attach bone graft material between two vertebrae until the two bones naturally fuse together over time. The procedure does restrict some movement of the back, but it is a worthwhile option for someone who is suffering from chronic debilitating pain. The problem is that if you have osteoporosis and low bone density, the Surgeon may judge you to be too high risk for this procedure which depends on the bones being strong enough to withstand the hardware placement.
If you’ve been dealing with pain due to a vertebral fracture, you don’t have to continue to suffer. The American Pain Institute uses a variety of pain relief services including medication, procedures, and devices to help relieve your back pain, many of which are all-natural.
Call (603) 766-8500 today to schedule a consultation. We do require a referral from your doctor before we can see you as a new patient, so start by contacting the doctor who has been treating your back pain and request a referral to our office.