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Robert Moghim MD

Anchor Healthcare

Sacroplasty

1746877827

Sacroplasty is a procedure designed to help people with sacral fractures, which often occur due to osteoporosis or conditions like cancer that weaken bones. During sacroplasty, a doctor injects a special bone cement into the fractured area to stabilize it, which can significantly relieve pain and improve mobility. This procedure is done using imaging techniques like a CT scan or X-ray to guide the cement precisely to the right spot in the sacral bone, located in the lower back part of your spine.

This procedure aims to address intense low back pain that often comes with sacral fractures, helping people resume their usual activities more comfortably. It is especially useful for patients who haven’t found relief from more conservative treatments, like bed rest or pain medications, and who may not be candidates for more invasive surgery.

Sacroplasty is generally safe, but, like any medical procedure, it comes with some risks. Common risks include bleeding or infection at the site of injection, and there's a small chance that the cement could leak or cause other complications, though these are rare. Before the procedure, it is important to stop taking blood thinners and have imaging tests like an MRI or CT to ensure the right diagnosis.

Recovery from sacroplasty is usually quick; most patients can walk within a few hours after the procedure and return home the same day, with pain relief often beginning almost immediately and lasting for a long time. Your health team will help monitor your progress and address any concerns following the procedure to ensure a smooth recovery process.

FAQs

How is the sacroplasty procedure performed?

The procedure involves the injection of bone cement into the fractured sacrum using imaging guidance such as a CT scan or X-ray. It is minimally invasive and performed under local anesthesia, allowing precise placement of the cement for optimal results.

What are the potential risks associated with sacroplasty?

While sacroplasty is generally safe, potential risks include bleeding, infection, and rare complications like cement leakage. There is also a small chance of cement entering the bloodstream, which could cause respiratory issues. Patients are advised to discuss these risks with their healthcare provider.

What can patients expect after undergoing sacroplasty?

Recovery is usually quick, with most patients able to walk within hours after the procedure. They often experience immediate pain relief and can return home the same day. Long-term pain reduction has been observed, with benefits lasting several years in some cases.

What is sacroplasty and why is it performed?

Sacroplasty is a minimally invasive procedure used to stabilize sacral fractures, often caused by osteoporosis or cancers that weaken bones. By injecting a special bone cement into the fractured area of the sacrum, the procedure helps relieve pain and improve mobility.

What should patients do to prepare for sacroplasty?

Prior to the procedure, patients should undergo imaging tests like an MRI or CT scan to confirm the diagnosis and location of the fracture. It's important to stop taking any blood thinners several days before the procedure to reduce the risk of bleeding.