Edits to original content made by Rector and Visitors of the University of Virginia. Many procedures are performed using minimally invasive techniques, which can help speed your recovery.Ĭontent was created using EBSCO’s Health Library. The surgical procedure likely will include a discectomy (removal of the damaged disc) and interbody fusion (fusing together the vertebrae above and below the disc space). You may require surgery if your surgeon discovers that one or more intervertebral discs are damaged and causing pain or other symptoms. If symptoms of lumbar DDD persist, despite nonoperative treatments, you may require further diagnostic tests that include: Many different nonsurgical treatments can help relieve symptoms. Most cases of lumbar degenerative disc disease do not require surgery. Your doctor will ask your medical history, perform a physical exam, and order diagnostic tests that may include: Disc degeneration causes loss of the joint space, similar to arthritis pain and inflammation. When disc height is lost, nerve impingement, bone and joint inflammation and pain can occur. However, DDD can cause discs to lose height and become stiff. Symptoms of Lumbar Disc Diseaseĭisc degeneration is a normal part of aging, and usually is not a problem. In most people, these changes are gradual. The intervertebral discs serve as the spine’s shock absorbers and, as we age, discs gradually dry out, losing strength and resiliency. You will come back for a follow-up appointment in a few weeks.Lumbar (low back) degenerative disc disease (DDD) is a common condition in aging adults. You may need to continue wearing a back brace, but it’s usually unnecessary. Your doctor will assess your pain and check for any possible complications. Your doctor can provide you with over-the-counter pain relievers for the temporary discomfort. You may experience pain relief almost immediately after the procedure, but it might take up to 72 hours. You will likely remain in an observation room for an additional 1 to 2 hours. You will probably lie on your back for 1 hour while the cement hardens. Depending on how the cement enters the vertebra, your doctor might apply a second injection to completely fill it. Uses a continuous X-ray to guide the needle into the fractured vertebra, with your body protected from the radiation. Gives you sedation medication to help you relax and keep calm during the procedure, or general anesthesia for severe pain.
Tell your doctor if you have a history of bleeding disorders or if you are taking any anticoagulant (blood-thinning) medications, aspirin or other medications that affect blood clotting. Tell your doctor about all prescription and over-the-counter medications and any herbal supplements you are taking. Your doctor might also use Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) or a Computed Tomography Scan (CT or CAT scan). Your doctor will likely order an X-ray, take a complete medical history and do a physical exam to determine the precise location and nature of your vertebra-related pain. You may face other risks depending on your specific condition, so talk to your doctor beforehand about any concerns. Vertebroplasty can worsen the pain for a few hours while the cement cures, but that rarely happens and does not last long. But patients can face risks such as:Ĭement flowing outside of the bone before it hardens Vertebroplasty is generally well tolerated, with complications usually minor and occurring at a rate of 1 percent to 3 percent. The fractured vertebra has led to more serious complications, including: Deep vein thrombosis, acceleration of osteoporosis, respiratory problems, loss of height and emotional or social issues. You suffer from severe or prolonged pain or immobility Traditional methods of treating your fractured vertebra or back pain fail Some doctors may recommend the procedure if: Patients should talk with their doctor about vertebroplasty’s risks and benefits.
Some studies also suggest that vertebroplasty provides little benefit over a more conservative approach, which can include: Vertebroplasty is a procedure in which a special cement is injected into a fractured vertebra - with the goal of relieving your spinal pain and restoring your mobility.Not all people with fractured vertebrae are candidates for the procedure, however.
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