Lumbar fracture fixation procedures allow treatment of fractured vertebras in the lumbar spine, which is one of the most common areas for fractures to present. Fracturing can be due to any number of causes, including osteoporosis, but is often associated with violent impacts such as those experienced in automobile and motorcycle accidents, as well as in falls from heights. Compression fractures must be treated correctly to avoid severe complications that include possible paraplegia. For more information about fracture fixation in the lumbar spine, contact Dr. Chetan Patel at AdventHealth Medical Group Spine Health by calling Call407-303-5452 for an appointment.
How Are Fractures Caused?
Broken bones are common enough – millions of people experience some sort of breakage each day around the world. Arms and legs are the most common areas for breaks to happen. However, spinal fractures can also occur. For patients suffering from osteoporosis, the resulting bone loss in the lumbar spine (as well as the cervical spine) can cause fracturing. While pain is one of the most common symptoms, those who experience a loss in height may also be suffering from fractured vertebras in the lumbar spine.
Other causes of fractures to the lumbar spine include automobile and motorcycle accidents. Fractures can happen whether or not wearing a seatbelt – the use of a lap belt only is more associated with fractured cervical spine vertebras, though. Trauma and high velocity impacts can also cause spinal fracturing. Falling from a height and landing on the back or the feet can fracture vertebras, as can sports injuries and gunshot wounds.
How Are Fractures Repaired?
The process of repairing spinal fractures is called fracture fixation. The underlying principle here is that immobilization of the affected vertebras is imperative. This is not only to prevent pain and encourage healing, but helps to prevent the release of bone fragments into the spinal canal, where they can encounter the spinal cord and cause paralysis.
Dr. Chetan Patel will perform fracture fixation at AdventHealth Medical Group Spine Health in one of several ways depending on the results of the initial consultation and examination. Using x-rays, CT scans and MRIs, a full examination of the spine will be conducted, and then he will discuss the best possible course of action for each patient.
In most instances, lumbar spine fractures will require immobilization and stabilization. Depending on the severity and location of the damage, this can be done with plates and pedicle screws, as well as hooks and wires. In all instances, the goal is to fuse the bone fragments together. Special acrylic cement may also be applied to fractured vertebras, as is the case with cervical fracture fixation procedures typical with compression fractures to the neck.
Find Help Now
If you are suffering from spinal fractures, time is of the essence. Contact Dr. Chetan Patel at AdventHealth Medical Group Spine Health for a full consultation of your condition and a determination of the best fixation method to use to treat your injury. Call407-303-5452 to request an appointment.