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Doctors Imaging Group | ||
What We Do > Diagnostic and Therapeutic Spinal and Joint Injection > Vertebroplasty |
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Vertebroplasty is a minimally invasive procedure used to strengthen or stabilize a spinal fracture caused by osteoporosis or cancer. It is designed to relieve back pain caused by compression fractures and to prevent further collapse of the vertebral body. The procedure involves injecting bone cement into the affected vertebral body. In most patients the pain is relieved immediately or within a few days. The procedure takes less than an hour and is performed as an outpatient procedure using local anesthetic and mild sedation if needed. Coblation is a minimally invasive adjunct therapy for metastatic cancer to the spine that uses low temperature radiofrequency energy (RF) to partially dissolve tumor. When combined with cement augmentation or vertebroplasty, this technology allows safer treatment of cancerous compression fractures which previously were felt to be untreatable except with major surgery. This treatment is specific for patients with metastatic or primary cancer tumors who have painful vertebral fractures. It does not take the place of radiation or other oncology therapies. |
For more information on preparing for a vertebroplasty and/or coblation:
- A representative will contact you prior to your appointment to review your medications and complete registration.
- Be sure to let your doctor know if you are taking blood thinners (Aspirin, Lovenox, Plavix, Heparin, or Coumadin). You MAY be asked to stop taking this medication 5 days prior to your procedure. You may resume this medication the day after your procedure.
- You will need to arrange for a driver to take you home.
- Do not eat for at least 4 hours prior to the procedure.
- The joint to be studied will be injected with contrast dye, local anesthetic and steroid. If you have an allergy to any of these medications please notify our representative, scheduler, or nurse as soon as possible.
- An IV is started before the procedure for pre-procedural antibiotics, and for sedation if needed during the procedure.
- After the procedure, you may go home as soon as the cement hardens (about 1 hour), but patients may feel sore at the injection site for 1-2 days. Tylenol or anti-inflammatory medications can relieve discomfort. Cold ice packs 3-4 times daily for several days is also effective. You may take your own pain medication as needed if it is already prescribed by your referring physician.
- If you develop fever or severe pain contact our office at 352.333.7(VIP) or call your referring physician. After hours or on week-ends, go to the nearest emergency room or call North Florida Regional Medical Center at 352.333.4000 and ask for the Radiologist on Call.
- Limited activity is recommended the first 24 hours. Regular activity with osteoporosis precautions can be resumed the next day as tolerated.
Learn more online at: www.arthrocarespine.com
Vascular & Interventional Procedures
Diagnostic and Therapeutic Spinal and Joint Injection Procedures
Vascular & Interventional Physicians
6685 NW 9th Blvd Gainesville, FL 32605
Phone: 352.333.7VIP (7847)
Direct Spine Line: 352. 313. 6873
Fax: 352.333.0990
Hours: 7:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Monday - Friday
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Vascular & Interventional Procedures Diagnostic and Therapeutic Spinal and Joint Injection Procedures |
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