Vertebral Balloon to Treat Spinal Compression Fractures

Spinal compression fractures are common in men and women over the age of 50. The most common cause of them is loss of bone strength due to osteoporosis. A fall in a patient with osteoporosis can place a sudden load on vertebral bone, exceeding its stability and resulting in fracture. Spinal compression fractures can be treated by kyphoplasty, or creating a cavity in the vertebral body using a vertebral balloon. Cement is then injected to stabilize the fracture and prevent future compression fractures. The newest technology in vertebral balloons are more efficient and easier to use.

I found this article interesting due to the approximately 700,000 Americans who are affected by osteoporosis. It sounds like a very interesting procedure that will open new doors for other spinal injuries in the future.

Source: http://www.biomedicalblog.com/avamax-vertebral-balloon-launched-to-treat-spinal-compression-fractures/27600/