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WWW.PINKERTONPAIN.COM
| 417-781-7246 |
Vertebroplasty
This site is not intended to be a substitute for
medical care. It is for informational purposes only.
medical care. It is for informational purposes only.
Vertebroplasty
What is Vertebroplasty?
Vertebroplasty is a minimally invasive procedure that strengthens a fractured or broken or vertebra (the small bones in the
spine). When a vertebra fractures, the usual rectangular shape of the bone becomes compressed causing pain. These
compression fractures are a common symptom and result of osteoporosis. In vertebroplasty, physicians use x-ray
guidance to inject a special bone cement mixture through a needle into the fractured bone to stabilize the fracture, thereby
relieving the pain caused by the fracture.
Are you a candidate for Vertebroplasty?
Vertebroplasty is generally recommended after simpler treatments, such as epidural injections, bed rest, a back brace or
pain medications have been ineffective. Vertebroplasty can be performed immediately in patients who have severe pain
requiring hospitalization or conditions that limit bed rest and medications. Vertebroplasty is also performed on patients
who may meet other specifications as determined by a physician.
What happens before a Vertebroplasty?
Dr. Pinkerton requires that you have an initial evaluation by him prior to having any form of treatment. This is an
opportunity for you and him to get to know each other. He will examine you thoroughly and review all of your medical
history and medication. You should be prepared to ask any questions at this time. This procedure is generally not done
in our office. You can expect to be scheduled for this procedure at a later date.
What happens after a Vertebroplasty?
You will be placed in a recovery room with continuous monitoring for a short period of time. You will need to arrange
transportation from the procedure facility. Other instructions will be determined by your doctor.
What are the results?
Vertebroplasty can allow a return to the previous level of activity, and prevent further vertebral collapse. The procedure is
usually successful at alleviating the pain caused by a compression fracture. Many patients feel significant relief almost
immediately. After just a few weeks, two-thirds of patients are able to lower their doses of pain medication significantly.
Many patients become symptom-free.
What are the risks?
Potential complications include a risk of infection, bleeding, increased back pain, cement leakage, numbness, and in
some rare cases paralysis.
For more information visit www.stryker.com
Vertebroplasty is a minimally invasive procedure that strengthens a fractured or broken or vertebra (the small bones in the
spine). When a vertebra fractures, the usual rectangular shape of the bone becomes compressed causing pain. These
compression fractures are a common symptom and result of osteoporosis. In vertebroplasty, physicians use x-ray
guidance to inject a special bone cement mixture through a needle into the fractured bone to stabilize the fracture, thereby
relieving the pain caused by the fracture.
Are you a candidate for Vertebroplasty?
Vertebroplasty is generally recommended after simpler treatments, such as epidural injections, bed rest, a back brace or
pain medications have been ineffective. Vertebroplasty can be performed immediately in patients who have severe pain
requiring hospitalization or conditions that limit bed rest and medications. Vertebroplasty is also performed on patients
who may meet other specifications as determined by a physician.
What happens before a Vertebroplasty?
Dr. Pinkerton requires that you have an initial evaluation by him prior to having any form of treatment. This is an
opportunity for you and him to get to know each other. He will examine you thoroughly and review all of your medical
history and medication. You should be prepared to ask any questions at this time. This procedure is generally not done
in our office. You can expect to be scheduled for this procedure at a later date.
What happens after a Vertebroplasty?
You will be placed in a recovery room with continuous monitoring for a short period of time. You will need to arrange
transportation from the procedure facility. Other instructions will be determined by your doctor.
What are the results?
Vertebroplasty can allow a return to the previous level of activity, and prevent further vertebral collapse. The procedure is
usually successful at alleviating the pain caused by a compression fracture. Many patients feel significant relief almost
immediately. After just a few weeks, two-thirds of patients are able to lower their doses of pain medication significantly.
Many patients become symptom-free.
What are the risks?
Potential complications include a risk of infection, bleeding, increased back pain, cement leakage, numbness, and in
some rare cases paralysis.
For more information visit www.stryker.com