Surgery for Spinal Fractures Gaining Ground

People who suffer from osteoporosis can cause compression fractures in their spine by bending over or even sneezing or coughing. Such fractures can be very painful and debilitating. However, most of these fractures will heal on their own in 6 to 12 weeks.

A minimally-invasive surgery, called vertebroplasty, helps sufferers by injecting cement into the spine to relieve pain and to provide strength. It seems to be very successful and is gaining in popularity, with 73,000 procedures done last year in the U.S. (Medicare covers the procedure.)

So what’s the matter with that?  Apparently, there are no studies that verify that the operation is better than just waiting for the fracture to heal on its own. Any operation carries risks. In the case of vertebroplasty, the risks are blood clots from the cement, paralysis, death, nerve damage, infections or even broken ribs from lying on the operating table.

While experts agree the operation can be a godsend to patients who have not healed by conventional treatment, many patients are getting the operation without waiting to see if the problem will heal itself. It’s not clear if patients understand the risks they are facing.

A study is currently being organized that will compare the operation to a “sham” procedure and see whether the operation really has a better outcome. Some doctors feel that cementing the spine may lead to more fractures because it reduces flexibility and natural motion. But it’s hard to tell, since those with advanced osteoporosis are prone to fractures in the first place.

If you’re considering such a procedure, be sure you fully understand the risks you are taking. Ask your doctor if rest, pills and physical therapy might a safer, albeit longer, road to travel to the same goal.

You can heal faster and reduce your risk for fractures with a few lifestyle changes. Don’t smoke, drink alcohol only moderately (for women, that’s one drink a day), and, get plenty of calcium and vitamin D.  If your doctor says it’s okay, exercise by walking, weight-training, and doing core-body strengthening exercises (Pilates is good for this.) Some types of yoga can also help to prevent osteoporosis and the risk of compression fractures.

If you’re over 50, a baseline bone density scan can help determine your risks of fractures. Those who already have bone loss need to avoid bending and lifting movements, like bending over a playpen to pick up a grandchild or picking up a heavy grocery bag.

Our Multi Nutrient Formulas contain 1,000 IU of vitamin D3 (as cholecalciferol) and 800 mg of calcium (as calcium carbonate), more of each than most multi-vitamins on the market. See related products below.