A vertebral compression fracture occurs when one of the bones within the spinal column (vertebrae) weakens and fractures or collapses. A sacral insufficiency fracture occurs in the sacrum, the triangular bone located at the base of the spine. Fractures like these can be extremely painful. If left untreated, they can lead to more serious health problems or permanent deformity.
Osteoporosis is the leading cause of spine and sacral fractures. It is a disease that affects bone density, which is why those with osteoporosis can more easily develop spine and sacral fractures. Women over 50 have the highest risk for osteoporosis, particularly caucasian and Asian women.
Several clinical studies have shown that individuals with a spine fracture are at a much higher risk of developing additional fractures, reduced lung function, difficulty controlling the bladder or bowels, decreased quality of life and even death.1,2,3
Many doctors will recommend conservative measures first to treat spine fractures. These can include various pain medications, back braces and bed rest. However, these do not address the root cause of the problem, nor do they address the risks associated with spine fractures.
Minimally invasive treatments are available from VISA: Vertebroplasty, kyphoplasty and sacroplasty. Using imaging guidance, our interventional radiologists can repair the fracture without the need for open surgery. These procedures are performed in a comfortable outpatient center and provide immediate relief from pain and other symptoms.
