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Unleashing the Power of Vertebral Body Augmentation: A Comprehensive Guide to Vertebroplasty and Kyphoplasty in Spine Surgery

Eli Brooks

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Vertebral body augmentation (VBA) is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to treat vertebral compression fractures (VCFs). VCFs are common in the elderly population, particularly in women with osteoporosis. They can cause severe pain, deformity, and disability. VBA procedures involve injecting bone cement into the collapsed vertebra to restore its height and stability. The two most common VBA procedures are vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty.

Vertebroplasty is a relatively simple procedure that is performed under local anesthesia. A small needle is inserted into the collapsed vertebra through a small incision in the back. Bone cement is then injected into the vertebra under pressure. The cement hardens quickly, providing immediate stabilization and pain relief.

Kyphoplasty is a more complex procedure that is typically performed under general anesthesia. A small balloon is inserted into the collapsed vertebra through a small incision in the back. The balloon is inflated to create a cavity in the vertebra. Bone cement is then injected into the cavity. The cement hardens quickly, providing immediate stabilization and pain relief.

Vertebral Body Augmentation, Vertebroplasty and Kyphoplasty in Spine Surgery

by Susan Zeppieri

5 out of 5

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VBA procedures offer a number of benefits over traditional open surgery for VCFs. These benefits include:

Minimally invasive: VBA procedures are performed through small incisions, which results in less pain, scarring, and recovery time.
Immediate pain relief: VBA procedures typically provide immediate pain relief.
Improved mobility: VBA procedures can improve mobility by reducing pain and restoring the height of the collapsed vertebra.
Reduced risk of complications: VBA procedures are associated with a low risk of complications, such as infection, bleeding, and nerve damage.

VBA procedures are generally safe, but there are some risks associated with the procedures. These risks include:

Cement leakage: Bone cement can leak out of the vertebra and into the surrounding tissues. This can cause pain, inflammation, and nerve damage.
Infection: There is a small risk of infection at the site of the incision.
Bleeding: There is a small risk of bleeding during the procedure.
Nerve damage: There is a small risk of nerve damage during the procedure.

VBA procedures are typically recommended for patients with VCFs who are experiencing severe pain and disability. The procedures are also recommended for patients who are at high risk for complications from open surgery.

VBA procedures are a safe and effective treatment for VCFs. The procedures offer a number of benefits over traditional open surgery, including less pain, scarring, and recovery time. VBA procedures can significantly improve the quality of life for patients with VCFs.

If you are experiencing severe pain and disability from a VCF, talk to your doctor about whether VBA is right for you.

Vertebral Body Augmentation, Vertebroplasty and Kyphoplasty in Spine Surgery

by Susan Zeppieri

5 out of 5