Compression Fracture Treatment in Spokane
Image-Guided Solutions for Spinal Compression Fractures
A spinal compression fracture occurs when a vertebra weakens and collapses, often due to osteoporosis, injury, or cancer. These fractures can cause sudden, severe back pain, limited mobility, and changes in posture.
At Peak IR, our interventional radiologists specialize in minimally invasive, image-guided treatments that stabilize fractures, relieve pain, and restore spinal strength. Using advanced procedures such as vertebral augmentation, we provide safe, effective options for patients seeking long-term relief without open surgery.
Understanding Compression Fractures
Compression fractures occur when a bone in your spine collapses under pressure. This can happen suddenly, often after a minor fall or lifting injury, particularly in patients with osteoporosis or cancer. Over time, untreated fractures can lead to chronic pain, loss of height, and spinal deformity.
Common symptoms include:
- Sudden, sharp back pain
- Pain that worsens with standing or walking
- Loss of height or stooped posture
- Limited movement or flexibility
- Fatigue or discomfort from poor alignment
Prompt treatment can reduce pain, prevent further bone collapse, and restore mobility.
Precision, Safety, and Expertise
Our interventional radiologists use live imaging to guide every step of treatment, ensuring precise targeting and optimal results. Each procedure is customized based on the type and severity of your fracture.
Why a Minimally Invasive Approach for Compression Fracture Treatment
Rapid Relief and Recovery
Most patients experience significant improvement in pain and function within days of treatment. Because the procedure is performed through a small incision, recovery is fast, and results are long-lasting.
Comprehensive, Non-Surgical Solutions
Vertebral augmentation provides a complete, minimally invasive approach to healing.
Trusted Experts in Image-Guided Medicine
At Peak IR, you’re cared for by experienced interventional radiologists who bring expertise, precision, and compassion to every procedure.
Advanced Treatment Options at Peak IR
Vertebral Augmentation
Vertebral augmentation is a minimally invasive procedure that stabilizes the fractured vertebra and can restore lost height. Under image guidance, a thin needle is placed into the fractured bone. Medical-grade cement is then injected into the bone, usually with the aid of a balloon or device to create channels in the bone. This strengthens the bone and helps relieve pain. When the fracture is associated with cancer, a procedure may also be performed to burn the cancer tissue before placing the cement.
Comparing Your Treatment Options
| Feature | Kyphoplasty |
Bracing | Medication Therapy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Approach | Stabilizes fractured vertebra with bone cement |
External support to limit movement | Pain relief with oral medication |
| Hospital Stay | Outpatient |
None | None |
| Recovery Time | Hours to 1 day |
Weeks to months | Ongoing |
| Effectiveness | Rapid, lasting pain relief and restored stability |
Provides support but no repair | Temporary relief only |
| Anesthesia | Local with sedation |
None | None |
| Ideal Candidates | Acute or painful vertebral fractures |
Mild or stable fractures | Early pain management |
What to Know About Compression Fracture Treatment
Who is a candidate for vertebral augmentation?
Patients with painful spinal compression fractures caused by osteoporosis, trauma, or cancer that have not improved with rest or medication may benefit from these treatments.
How long do the procedures take?
Typically less than one hour. Patients rest briefly afterward and go home the same day.
When will I feel better?
The procedure usually takes one to two hours. Patients are monitored briefly afterward and can go home the same day.
When will I feel better?
Many patients notice immediate pain relief after vertebral augmentation, with continued improvement over the following days and sometimes weeks.
Are these procedures safe?
Yes. Vertebral augmentation is a safe, well-established treatment performed under real-time imaging. Complications are rare and typically mild.
Will my insurance cover these treatments?
Most insurance providers, including Medicare, cover vertebral augmentation when medically indicated. Our team will assist with pre-authorizations and confirm your coverage before scheduling.
Our Team
At the heart of Peak IR is a team of physicians who combine national expertise with a local commitment to care.
Take the First Step Toward Relief from Knee Pain
At Peak IR, we believe back pain shouldn’t define your life. Through advanced, minimally invasive procedures, our team provides effective, lasting relief for compression fractures.