At Georgia Brain & Spine Center
Spinal fractures are boney injuries that can occur in the cervical, thoracic, or lumbar spine. These fractures often occur as a result of a significant trauma such as a car accident, fall down stairs, or fall from standing. Some conditions such as cancer and osteoporosis can weaken your bones and predispose you to sustaining fractures, even from a minor injury. Fractures are classified based on which bone is injured, the orientation of the fracture line, whether the spinal column has been destabilized, and whether there is an injury to the spinal cord or nerve roots.
Treatment of Spinal Fractures
The treatment of spinal fractures varies greatly depending on a number of factors. Minor fractures in which the spinal column remains stable and there is no injury to the spinal cord or nerve roots can often be managed with an external brace. Other fractures which are unstable or that result in damage to the spinal cord require urgent surgery. One special type of spinal fracture is an osteoporotic compression fracture. These fractures which result from extremely low bone density may be treated with a procedure called a Vertebroplasty or Kyphoplasty in which cement is injected into the bone to augment its strength and stability. This procedure is minimally invasive, done as an outpatient, and can greatly reduce your pain and get you back on your feet. Your surgeon will discuss your options with you and help to design a solution that fits your needs.
If you have been told that you have a spinal fracture, we may be able to help. Please contact us to make an appointment to see us at Georgia Brain & Spine Center.