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Kyphoplasty and Vertebroplasty: Minimally Invasive Percutaneous Treatment for Osteoporotic Compression Fractures

Last updated Tuesday, December 02, 2008

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Summary

What are the key points about kyphoplasty and vertebroplasty for osteoporotic compression fractures in the spine?

Edited By: Michael J. Lee, M.D.

Compression fractures in the spine can occur in the in patients with osteoporosis, which is commonly seen in the elderly. These fractures occur with little trauma to metabolically weakened bone. This is in contrast with a traumatic compression fracture which can occur in high energy traumas like a motor vehicle accident.

Osteoporotic compression fractures area source of disability and morbidity in the elderly population. Often these can be challenging to treat as elderly patients often have other medical conditions.

Historically, osteoporotic compression fractures have been treated with rest, medication, and bracing. If these non surgical treatments were not successful, open surgeries have been performed to stabilize the spine. These surgeries can be extensive and can be complicated by patients’ advanced age, medical co-morbidities, and weakened bone and are not ideal in the elderly patient.

Recently, minimally invasive procedures have been developed to treat osteoporotic compression fractures. There are two minimally invasive treatments that have been used: vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty. In these procedures, bone cement is inserted into the fractured vertebra which allows for stabilization, and relief of pain.

Surgery for Osteoporotic Compression Fractures in the Spine at the University of Washington, Department of Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine, Seattle, Washington

If you are interested in making an appointment to discuss this procedure in Seattle, you can request an appointment using our online referrals website. To request a referral online, please click here. You can also call 206-598-4288 to make an appointment. Our clinical center is located in Seattle Washington, USA

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