What are Spine Fractures?
Spinal fractures occur when the vertebrae (the bones of the spine) break as a result of trauma, accident or any external force. The spine forms the main support structure of the body and is a critical part of the nervous system, so fractures not only damage the bones, but can also put pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. Spinal fractures often occur as a result of falls from height, traffic accidents, sports injuries or diseases that cause bone weakness, such as osteoporosis. Fractures can range from simple cracks to complete displacement of the vertebrae.
Spinal fractures can lead to serious consequences such as pain, nerve damage, limited mobility and spinal cord injuries. In such cases, rapid intervention is necessary to preserve both the quality of life and the health of the patient.
Causes and Types of Spine Fractures: Spinal fractures can be caused by a variety of reasons and are usually classified as follows:
- Traumatic Spine Fractures: Occur as a result of severe trauma such as traffic accidents, falls, blows or sports injuries.
- Osteoporotic Fractures: This is a condition in which the vertebrae can easily fracture as a result of decreased bone density (osteoporosis). This type of fracture is more common in the elderly.
- Spine fractures caused by cancer: Cancers that have metastasized to the spine can weaken the bones and lead to fractures.
- High Energy Injuries: For example, a fall from a height or a traffic accident.
How is Spine Fracture Surgery Performed?
The treatment of spinal fractures depends on the type of fracture, its effects on the spine and the general health of the patient. Surgery is usually necessary in the following cases:
- Spinal Cord Damage: If the fracture causes pressure on the spinal cord and affects nerve function.
- Instable Fractures: If there is serious deterioration in the structure of the spine, that is, if the ligaments or discs that provide spinal stability are damaged.
- Fractures that are painful and do not respond to treatment: Surgical intervention may be required in case of pain that does not improve with conservative treatment methods (rest, physical therapy, medications).
The following steps are generally followed in spine fracture surgery:
- Preparation and Anesthesia:
Spinal fracture surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia. The patient is fully anesthetized and positioned appropriately to access the surgical field. The head is immobilized and a surgical incision is made in the patient’s back. - Surgical Intervention:
- Fixation and Stabilization: For spinal stabilization, special titanium rods, screws and plates are used to hold the fractured vertebrae in place. This is necessary to restore the stability of the spine.
- Repair of the fracture site: Surgical intervention on the fractured vertebra corrects the position of the bones. If the spine is misaligned, it is brought into the correct alignment.
- Bone Graft A bone graft (bone tissue taken from a foreign source) can sometimes be used to accelerate healing in the fractured area.
- Recovery Process and Rehabilitation:
The recovery process after surgery varies depending on the patient’s condition. Physical therapy and rehabilitation are recommended for patients to speed up the healing process. In addition, a special back corset or supportive devices can be used so that the patient does not burden the spine area.
Recovery after Spine Fracture Surgery: The recovery period after surgery varies depending on the age of the patient, the severity of the fracture and the success of the surgery. Generally, the recovery period can vary from a few weeks to several months. After surgical treatment, patients may receive physical therapy and pain management treatments to re-stabilize the spine.
Why Metropol Health Group for Spine Fractures?
Metropol Health Group provides quality and safe service to its patients by using experienced surgeons and the latest technology in the treatment of spinal fractures. Our expertise in spine surgery ensures that patients recover in a shorter time with advanced surgical techniques and minimally invasive methods.
Metropol Health Group offers the following advantages in the treatment of spine fractures:
- High Success Rates: High success rate in the treatment of spinal fractures thanks to the latest technologies and our expert surgeons.
- Minimally Invasive Methods: Minimally invasive surgical interventions with smaller incisions result in faster recovery and less pain.
- Individualized Treatment Plans: The most appropriate treatment plan with tailored treatment approaches for each patient.
- Advanced Rehabilitation Services: Professional rehabilitation support for the rapid recovery of our patients after surgical intervention.