Spinal Compression Fracture
What is Spinal Compression Fracture?
The vast majority of spinal compression fractures are due to osteoporosis. They are typically found in elderly patients and more commonly in women than men as more women have osteoporosis. However, many elderly males also have osteoporotic compression fractures. They can also be associated with cancers of the spine or cancers that have spread to the spine (although this is less common). The fractures can range from minimally painful to excruciating. Fractures can result from a fall or other trauma, however, in patients with severe osteoporosis it may be due to bending, twisting, or picking something up.
An X-ray, CT scan or MRI will typically show compression of one or more of the vertebral bodies of the spine. MRI is typically the most useful because it can help determine the age of the fracture. In patients who cannot undergo an MRI and there is a question regarding the age of a fracture, then a nuclear medicine bone scan may be ordered.
Symptoms
- Sudden onset of back pain
- An increase of pain intensity while standing or walking
- A decrease in pain intensity while lying on the back
- Limited spinal mobility
- Eventual height loss
- Eventual deformity and disability
How are Spinal Compression Fractures treated?
After imaging diagnosis and clinic consultation, we will discuss your options for treatment depending on the symptoms and severity. Kyphoplasty is the most common treatment for this condition.
Treatments
After imaging diagnosis and clinic consultation, we will discuss your options for treatment depending on the symptoms and severity. Kyphoplasty is the most common treatment for this condition.
Kyphoplasty
Kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive, outpatient procedure used to treat spinal compression fractures, which often occur due to osteoporosis, trauma, or spinal tumors. It stabilizes fractured vertebrae, relieves severe back pain, and restores spinal alignment.
How it Works
During Kyphoplasty, the patient is placed under moderate sedation. Using advanced X-ray imaging for precise guidance, a thin needle is carefully inserted into the fractured vertebra. A special balloon is passed through this needle and inflated gently, elevating the compressed vertebra back toward its original height and shape. The balloon is then removed, leaving a cavity within the vertebral bone, which is filled with medical-grade bone cement. This cement quickly hardens, stabilizing the fracture and preventing further vertebral collapse.
What to Expect
Kyphoplasty typically takes about one hour, and patients commonly experience rapid pain relief, often within hours or days following the procedure. Recovery time is minimal, with most patients resuming regular daily activities within a few days. The procedure boasts high success rates, with approximately 85–90% of patients reporting significant pain reduction, improved mobility, and enhanced quality of life.
Learn More About Kyphoplasty
If you’re experiencing persistent back pain caused by a spinal compression fracture, Kyphoplasty is often a safe and effective option for eligible candidates. At ECCO Medical, we’re Colorado’s top choice for spinal compression fracture treatments. To learn whether Kyphoplasty is right for you, contact ECCO Medical to schedule a consultation.
