VCF THERAPY
Take the assessment
Evaluate your patient suffering from Vertebral Compression Fracture pain and identify which is the most suitable treatment option
There are several reasons why so many vertebral fractures do not come to medical attention:
- The occurrence of a spinal or vertebral fracture generally does not require emergency care, unlike hip and other osteoporotic fractures [1]
- The person suspects their sudden back pain maybe due to arthritis, a muscle strain or other causes [1]
- The physician does not recognize height loss, back pain and increased stoop as signs that a fracture has occurred [3]
- Vertebral fractures are not always painful and as a result are not on the radar of the patient or physician [1]
- Some vertebral fractures are of slow onset and therefore difficult to detect [1]
DIAGNOSIS
X-RAY
CT OR CAT SCAN
A diagnostic image created after a computer reads X-rays; can show the shape and size of the spinal canal, its contents and the structures around it. This test may be performed in conjunction with a myelogram of the spine to provide additional information. A myelogram involves a spinal tap where dye is administered near the spinal cord. This diagnostic study is ideal for showing bone detail including narrowing. [3]
MRI
DUAL-ENERGY X-RAY ABSORPTIOMETRY (DXA OR DEXA) OR BONE DENSITOMETRY
This test is the established standard for measuring bone mineral density and can determine if osteoporosis exists. The scanner painlessly and rapidly directs X-ray energy from two different sources towards the bone being examined in an alternating fashion at a set frequency. A DEXA scan can detect small changes in bone mass and is also more flexible since it can be used to examine both the spine and the extremities. A scan of the spine, hip or the entire body requires less than four minutes. [3]
BRIEF STATEMENT
See the device manual for detailed information regarding the instructions for use, indications, contraindications, warnings, precautions, and potential adverse events. For further information, contact your local Medtronic representative and/or consult the Medtronic website at medtronic.eu.
REFERENCES
- International Osteoporosis Foundation Website. https://www.iofbonehealth.org/breaking-spine-report-2010. Accessed December 2018
- Brunton S, Carmichael B, Gold D, et al. Vertebral compression fractures in primary care: recommendations from a consensus panel. J Fam Pract. 2005;54(9): 781 – 788.
- Louis George Jenis, MD, FAAOS. American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons. OrthoInfo. (2019). Osteoporosis and Spinal Fractures.
* The Assessment tool is based on the following publications:
- Anselmetti GC, et al. Criteria for the appropriate treatment of osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures, Pain Physician 2013; 16: E519-E530
- Schupfner R, et al. Treatment of osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures: Applicability of appropriateness criteria in clinical practice. Pain Physician 2016; 19: E113-E120