A 21st-Century Procedure to Treat Osteoporotic Vertebral Compression Fractures
In the past, nonsurgical treatments for vertebral compression fractures (VCFs) have been limited to rest, pain management or cement injections. While these treatments can provide temporary relief, they do not focus on restoring the strength of the vertebra and protecting it against further injury. The SpineJack system is a revolutionary osteoporosis treatment that provides immediate, lasting relief for back pain by restoring the function of the fractured vertebra and protecting it from future compression fractures.
What Are Vertebral Compression Fractures?
A vertebral compression fracture, sometimes called a spinal fracture or compression fracture, is the most common injury experienced by people suffering from osteoporosis or low bone mass.
Compression fractures happen when the vertebral body of the spine collapses. This injury can take place during a wide range of activities. The most common symptoms of a vertebral compression fracture are a sudden increase in pain in the lower, middle or upper back and limited mobility.
While some compression fractures may heal quickly in people with good bone health, most people with osteoporosis or low bone density will require a medical examination to determine the proper course of treatment. One of the newest and most effective osteoporosis treatments is the SpineJack System.
What Is a SpineJack?
Developed by a French physician and approved by the FDA in 2018, the SpineJack system is a powerful osteoporosis treatment for debilitating compression fractures. The SpineJack is an intra-vertebral titanium body implant that expands and contracts much like a car jack. The procedure works as follows:
- Two SpineJack implants are inserted into the fractured vertebra through minute incisions using a small needle and X-ray guidance.
- The implants are positioned on each side of the fractured vertebral body.
- Once inserted, the implants are expanded to help “lift” the damaged vertebra back to its original height while being supported by the titanium structure.
- To reinforce the structure, the area around the implants is then filled with bone cement which hardens to form a strong internal cast.
Aside from the fast-acting, long-lasting pain relief it provides, one of the many benefits to the SpineJack system is that it is minimally invasive and can be done as an outpatient procedure. This means that most patients are able to resume normal activities two weeks after their appointment.
If you are suffering from back pain due to osteoporosis, injury or any other circumstance, we’re here to help. Call Valley Pain Consultants for a spine evaluation today.