What is a vertebral Plana deformity?

Vertebra plana (plural: vertebrae planae), also known as the pancake, silver dollar or coin-on-edge vertebra, is the term given when a vertebral body has lost almost its entire height anteriorly and posteriorly, representing a very advanced compression fracture.

What does compression deformity mean?

Vertebral compression fractures (VCFs) occur when the bony block or vertebral body in the spine collapses, which can lead to severe pain, deformity and loss of height. These fractures more commonly occur in the thoracic spine (the middle portion of the spine), especially in the lower part.

How can a compression fracture affect neurological function?

Imaging modalities other than plain films should always be used in patients with neurologic deficits, as multiple compression fractures can cause enough kyphotic angulation to lead to cord compression and progression to complete loss of neurologic function.

What is used to treat osteoporosis related compression fractures?

Today there are two promising therapeutic and preventive treatments for compression fractures called vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty. These procedures utilize orthopedic cement, which is injected into the space between the vertebrae. The cement hardens and returns the vertebral space to its original height.

When should I start physical therapy after compression fracture?

Physical therapy begins as soon as possible after the compression fracture is stable (as determined by a physician). Physical therapists help people with spinal compression fractures: Reduce their back pain. Improve their flexibility and strength.

Can vertebral compression fractures cause leg pain?

Compression fractures may or may not cause symptoms. If compression fractures cause symptoms, these may include: pain in back, arms, or legs. numbness and/or weakness in arms or legs (if the fracture has affected the spinal cord and/or surrounding nerves in the spine)

What is Gibbus deformity?

Gibbus deformities are characterized by anterior collapse of one or more vertebral bodies resulting in kyphosis. These deformities usually arise from spinal infections, and are traditionally associated with tuberculosis; other pathogens are rarely reported in the literature.

What does Scheuermann’s disease look like?

Scheuermann’s kyphosis (kye-FOH-sis) is a condition affecting the upper back. It makes the upper back rounded so it looks hunched over. It’s sometimes called Scheuermann’s disease.

Does walking help a compression fracture?

Prevention. Taking steps to prevent and treat osteoporosis is the most effective way to prevent compression or insufficiency fractures. Getting regular load-bearing exercise (such as walking) can help you avoid bone loss.

How do you sleep with a compression fracture?

Sleep on your back with a pillow under your knees. This will decrease pressure on your back. You may also sleep on your side with 1 or both of your knees bent and a pillow between them. It may also be helpful to sleep on your stomach with a pillow under you at waist level.

Can a compression fracture cause problems years later?

The long-term effects of compression fractures can diminish the quality of life, resulting in: Chronic pain. Since mild back pain is assumed to be a normal part of aging, many people don’t seek treatment until multiple compression fractures have occurred.

Are compression fractures serious?

Spine compression fractures are serious, and they can cause painful or debilitating symptoms that interfere with your quality of life. Fortunately, treatment can help repair the damage and relieve symptoms.

Can a compressed vertebrae be fixed?

Surgical Treatment Vertebroplasty is a new surgical procedure that may be used to treat compression fractures. In this procedure, the surgeon inserts a catheter into the compressed vertebra. The catheter is used to inject the fractured vertebrae with bone cement, which hardens, stabilizing the vertebral column.

What is Pott’s paraplegia?

Pott disease is the most dangerous form of musculoskeletal tuberculosis because it can cause bone destruction, deformity, and paraplegia. Pott disease most commonly involves the thoracic and lumbosacral spine.

What causes a Gibbus?

The most common cause of Gibbus deformity is tuberculosis osteomyelitis (1), although it may also result from metabolic disorders or congenital syndromes such as achondroplasia or cretinism and therefore is more common in children than adults.