Management of Back Pain

Acute back pain in older adults may be attributed to fractures in the spine. While most often the result of osteoporosis, these fractures can also be the result of cancer that has metastasized to the bones or traumatic injuries such as falls. Sacral insufficiency fractures occur in an area of the lower back called the sacrum. Vertebral compression fractures occur most commonly in the thoracic (middle portion) of the spine.

Percutaneous Vertebral and Sacral Surgery

Sacroplasty and Vertebroplasty

Percutaneous sacroplasty and vertebroplasty procedures are minimally invasive treatment options for sacral and vertebral insufficiency fractures. They provide significant relief without open surgery or their associated complications. During the procedure, an interventional radiologist uses imaging to guide a needle into the fracture. Special fast-drying bone cement is injected into the fracture, strengthening the bone and relieving pain.

Kyphoplasty

Kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive treatment for vertebral compression fractures. During the procedure, an interventional radiologist places a catheter with a special balloon tip into the fracture. The balloon is inflated to restore height to the vertebra. The balloon is then deflated, and a special fast-drying bone cement is injected into the cavity.