Vertebral (spine) compression fractures (VCF) are the most common fractures in people with osteoporosis. It occurs when one of the bones of the spinal column weakens and collapses. Each year there are more than 700,000 spine fractures—more than hip and wrist fractures combined. Spine fractures are extremely painful, resulting in decreased mobility and appetite, poor lung function, and insomnia.
Balloon kyphoplasty is a revolutionary treatment for vertebral compression due to osteoporosis or cancer that can make it easier for patients to return to everyday activities like walking, bending or lifting, with significantly less pain than before. In this procedure, orthopedic balloons are used in an attempt to elevate the bone fragments of the fractured vertebra and return them to the correct position. Performed under local anesthesia, the procedure typically takes less than an hour and may require an overnight hospital stay.
This outpatient, non-surgical procedure results in pain relief in more than 95% of patients. Radiology of Indiana at Community Health Network is a leading provider of this procedure in the United States.
To learn more about procedures to treat osteoporosis, call 317-621-5555.