At Gerling Spine Care NJ, we specialize in vertebroplasty, a highly effective, minimally invasive procedure designed to treat patients suffering from vertebral compression fractures (VCFs), commonly caused by osteoporosis or trauma. This treatment provides significant pain relief, enhances spinal stability, and helps restore your quality of life. Our experienced team of specialists uses advanced techniques to ensure optimal results for patients throughout New Jersey.
How Vertebroplasty Works
The vertebroplasty procedure is minimally invasive and typically takes around 30 minutes to 1 hour. Here's an overview of what to expect:
- Preparation: You will be positioned comfortably on the operating table. The area to be treated will be cleaned and numbed with local anesthesia. Depending on your needs, sedation or general anesthesia may be used.
- Imaging Guidance: The procedure is guided by fluoroscopy (real-time X-ray), which allows the surgeon to precisely target the fractured vertebra for accurate cement placement.
- Needle Insertion: A needle is carefully inserted into the fractured vertebra through a small incision. Fluoroscopy ensures that the needle is placed accurately.
- Cement Injection: Once the needle is in position, a special bone cement is injected into the vertebra. The cement hardens quickly, stabilizing the fracture and restoring the vertebra's strength.
- Post-Procedure: After the cement has set, the needle is removed, and the small incision is closed. Most patients experience a short recovery period and can go home the same day.
