MEET THE SPECIALISTS TO THE SPECIALISTS
Michael Cumming, MD
Dr. Cumming is a nationally-recognized expert in varicocele and prostate artery embolization. His embolization techniques have been presented at the Global Embolization (GEST) meeting.
PETER BRETZMAN, MD
Dr. Bretzman has over 25 years of experience solving complex medical problems using minimally invasive imaging guided techniques. His focus is finding the most efficient solution for patients.
UNDERSTANDING KYPHOPLASTY AND VERTEBROPLASTY PROCEDURES
IS KYPHOPLASTY OR VERTEBROPLASTY AN ALTERNATIVE TO SURGERY & WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS?
Yes! The procedure is performed as an outpatient procedure, not inside a hospital. You’ll be sent home the same day.
Dr. Cumming and Dr. Bretzman will partner with you and/or your existing care team (ex: primary care, orthopedist) to determine if you’re a candidate for vertebroplasty or kyphoplasty.
The overall success rate for vertebral augmentation in treating osteoporotic fractures is approximately 85% to 90%. After the bone cement is inserted into the vertebra (vertebroplasty), 90% have rapid complete or near complete relief of pain, and over 75% of patients regain activity. You might be symptom free, and you won’t have to do physical therapy or rehabilitation.
Kyphoplasty has been shown to reduce mortality at one year compared to patients treated with non-surgical management. Kyphoplasty is also cost-effective compared to non-surgical management.
AM I A CANDIDATE FOR VERTEBROPLASTY OR KYPHOPLASTY?
Kyphoplasty and vertebroplasty are generally reserved for people with painful progressive (increasing) back pain caused by osteoporotic or pathological vertebral compression fractures. Candidates for these procedures often have a reduced ability to move and function because of the fractures.
To be a candidate for a kyphoplasty or vertebroplasty, your pain must be related to the vertebral fracture, and must not be due to other problems. Patients with disk herniation, arthritis, or stenosis (narrowing) related pain will not be candidates for this procedure. Imaging tests — such as spinal x-rays, bone scans and computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans — might be ordered to confirm the presence of a vertebral fracture.
WHAT TO EXPECT FROM YOUR VISIT:
- CONSULTATION: Your health history and symptoms will be reviewed during this discussion.
- IMAGING: Compression fractures are seen on regular x-rays, CT scans and MRI scans. An MRI scan is always performed before proceeding with kyphoplasty or vertebroplasty, to ensure precision and accuracy.
- TREATMENT PLAN: With a comprehensive review of all symptoms and exams, Drs. Cumming and Bretzman are able to provide definitive treatment recommendations that ultimately help patients choose their preferred option for optimal outcomes.