A Physician's Perspective: Dr. Tony Brown on Vertebral Compression Fractures

The Treatment of Vertebral Compression Fractures

As an interventional radiologist at RIA Endovascular, I see many patients struggling with vertebral compression fractures (VCFs)—a condition that can cause severe pain and limits mobility. Whether caused by osteoporosis, trauma, or cancer, these fractures can lead to severe pain in the short-term and chronic disability in the long-term if not appropriately treated. Fortunately, we have minimally invasive treatments that provide rapid pain relief and help restore spinal stability so that patients can effectively rehabilitate their injuries.

Kyphoplasty: A Reliable and Effective Treatment

For years, kyphoplasty has been my go-to procedure for treating painful VCFs. It’s a straightforward, highly effective technique that stabilizes the fracture, much like putting a cast on a broken bone, but in this case the cast is internal.

The procedure works like this:

We use a needle under x-ray guidance to safely enter the bone. A small balloon is inserted into the fractured vertebra and inflated, gently creating space.
Once the desired height is achieved, the balloon is removed, and a medical acrylic is injected, solidifying the fracture and preventing further collapse.
Because kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive outpatient procedure performed through a needle, patients can go home the same day with rapid improvement in pain and mobility.

Kyphoplasty can transform patients' lives, giving them the opportunity to return to the function they enjoyed before they suffered their VCF.

The SpineJack® Procedure: A Next-Generation Solution

I also offer a more advanced technique called SpineJack®, which can be particularly beneficial for certain patients.

Instead of using a balloon, SpineJack® relies on two small titanium implants that act like tiny car jacks inside the vertebra. Here’s how it works:

Two needles are placed using xray guidance, the same technique as for kyphoplasty. The SpineJack® implants are inserted and carefully expanded with the goal of restoring the vertebra to its natural height.
The implants stay in place for structural support and are fixated in place by medical acrylic. This is analogous to splinting a deformed bone prior to putting on a cast to restore the bones original shape.

One of the biggest advantages I’ve seen with SpineJack® is its ability to provide better height restoration and restore spinal alignment. This can help the patient avoid new fractures and prevent chronic pain.

Choosing the Right Procedure for Each Patient

Every patient’s situation is different, which is why I take the time to carefully assess fracture severity, spinal alignment, and overall bone health before recommending a treatment. Both kyphoplasty and SpineJack® are outpatient, minimally invasive procedures with excellent results. The choice comes down to the patient’s specific needs and what will provide the best long-term outcome.

Why I Trust RIA Endovascular for the Treatment of Vertebral Compression Fractures

At RIA Endovascular, my team and I are dedicated to providing the highest level of care for patients with spinal fractures. What sets us apart?

Nationally recognized experts – The physicians at RIA Endovascular are sought after around the country to train physicians in kyphoplasty techniques and regularly lecture at national meetings.
Advanced Imaging and Precision Techniques – We use state-of-the-art imaging to guide every procedure with accuracy.
Minimally Invasive, Maximum Relief – Our treatments offer faster recovery times and minimal risk compared to open surgery.
We treat the whole disease – Most VCF's are as a result of untreated osteoporosis. At RIA Endovascular patients who are referred for kyphoplasty will undergo comprehensive bone health evaluation and treatment through an individualized and patient-centered approach.

If You’re Suffering, There’s Hope

Vertebral compression fractures don’t have to mean a lifetime of pain and limited movement. If you or a loved one is dealing with persistent back pain, I encourage you to reach out to RIA Endovascular. Together, we’ll find the best treatment option to get you back to doing what you love—without the pain.