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I Have Had Vertebra Fractures. Anyone Have Surgery To Fix Them? If So, How Did It Go?

A MyMyelomaTeam Member asked a question 💭
Chino Valley, AZ
July 3
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A MyMyelomaTeam Member

Thank you for sharing your experience.

July 4
A MyMyelomaTeam Member

Pam, good question. I have had 7 vertebra fractures. 3 were in the thorax and the were fixed with vertebroplasty, straightforward operation, fixed all the pain and no problem in 2 almost 3 years. Still have 4 in the lumbar which the surgeon will not fix. Those have mostly healed on their own but very painful healing for 2 years. The doctor says cement in the fractures will only cause other vertebra to fail because there is no give with the cement which causes others to fracture. That's all I know.

July 3
A MyMyelomaTeam Member

Spinal surgery for vertebral fractures caused by myeloma can be effective in restoring stability, reducing pain, and improving mobility. There are two main types of surgery for vertebral compression fractures:

1. Vertebroplasty: A specialized cement mixture is injected into the collapsed vertebra to stabilize it
2. Show Full Answer

Spinal surgery for vertebral fractures caused by myeloma can be effective in restoring stability, reducing pain, and improving mobility. There are two main types of surgery for vertebral compression fractures:

1. Vertebroplasty: A specialized cement mixture is injected into the collapsed vertebra to stabilize it.
2. Kyphoplasty: Similar to vertebroplasty, but includes inflating a small balloon in the vertebra before injecting the cement to create space and help restore height.

Results:
- In a study of 55 people, 45 reported significant pain relief.
- 11 out of 13 participants who couldn't walk before surgery regained the ability to walk.
- 12 participants developed complications, with 5 requiring additional surgery.
- One patient died due to a post-surgical complication.

Recovery:
- You may need to lie still for about an hour post-surgery while the cement hardens.
- Hospital stay may be required for observation or overnight.
- Avoid heavy lifting for six weeks post-surgery.

Risks:
- Common surgical risks include blood clots, blood loss, infection, and reactions to medication.
- Specific risks for spinal surgery include spinal cord injury, nerve pain, and leakage of bone cement.

Always consult with your doctor to understand the best treatment options for your specific condition.

July 3

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