Stamford Health Now Offers SpineJack® Procedure

From Stamford Health: Stamford Health is the first hospital in Connecticut to offer the SpineJack® procedure, an effective, low-risk FDA-approved procedure for patients suffering from vertebral compression fractures. This type of fracture is caused by a collapse of a vertebra due to trauma or weakening of the vertebrae. The SpineJack is designed to correct vertebral height, preventing the vertebral body from collapsing again. If left untreated, compression fractures can be life-limiting and leave patients bed-ridden.

This outpatient procedure is a non-invasive method that uses image guidance to restore the shape of the vertebrae, reducing pain and the risk of additional fractures. A small needle is inserted into the bone and a metal device is implanted to restore height and shape. Patients who undergo this procedure can feel better in as little as an hour and, following physical therapy, can expect to return to their normal level of activity.

“The SpineJack is yet another addition to the comprehensive services we provide as part of our growing interventional radiology program,” said Dr. Brian Stainken, Chair & Medical Director, Department of Radiology, Stamford Health. “The minimally invasive procedure only takes about 30 minutes and has been shown to significantly improve patients’ quality of life. We are extremely proud to be the first hospital in the state and one of only a dozen or so to be making such an advanced treatment option available to our patients.”

SpineJack is well-suited for patients who have a history of osteoporosis or are at risk for developing it, have suffered from a compression fracture or have experienced trauma to the spine.

Compression fractures are most common in older adults ranging from 70-80 years-old, but can affect younger patients as well. It is better to treat compression fractures early on. If not, it can get harder to get the pain under control.

At Stamford Health, the SpineJack procedure is conducted by Todd Miller, MD, and Bryan Lazzara, MD, two of only a few credentialed providers in the nation. With their expertise in spinal intervention, Dr. Miller and Dr. Lazzara are a resource to local and regional patients.

For more information, please visit the Stamford Health interventional radiology page.

Image via Stamford Health