Painful Bone Lesions
Lesions are areas of abnormal tissue growth. These growths may or may not be cancerous.
When abnormal tissue (lesions) contain cells that multiply at high rates, the resulting abnormal mass is called a bone tumor. Like lesions, tumors may or may not be cancerous.
Causes & Complications of Bone Lesions
Bone lesions may develop due to trauma (bone breaks), infection, growth disturbances, or disease (cancer). Lesions may occur in any part of the bone, including the bone marrow in the center of the bone.
Lesions can weaken and damage the bone, making it more susceptible to fracture. In addition, bone lesions can cause pain and other symptoms or complications (e.g., swelling, stiffness, tenderness).
Lesions that occur on the bone may sometimes impinge upon nearby nerves and other soft tissue, causing additional problems and symptoms. For example, bone lesions in the bones of the spine may lead to compression fractures. These lesions may also press on the spinal cord, which can result in serious complications, including numbness and paralysis if not treated in a timely fashion.
Imaging tests, such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs can provide details necessary to identify bone lesions and help determine a treatment plan, if necessary. In some cases, a biopsy may be necessary.
Treating Bone Lesions
Some bone lesions may be treated with medications; others may require additional treatment – or no treatment at all.
One type of treatment that is becoming more popular is that offered by interventional radiology, which uses minimally invasive techniques to treat the affected area without the need for extensive surgical intervention. These treatments help relieve pain, restore mobility, and improve a patient’s quality of life.
Bone lesions, such as osteolytic lesions or fractures caused by tumors or diseases like osteoporosis, can be treated using a variety of techniques performed by interventional radiologists.
One treatment option for bone lesions is called radiofrequency ablation (RFA). During RFA, an interventional radiologist uses specialized equipment to generate heat near the lesion using high-frequency electrical currents. The heat from this process effectively destroys the abnormal cells in the area surrounding the lesion while leaving healthy tissue unharmed.
Another treatment option is called vertebroplasty, which involves injecting cement into the lesion to stiffen it and prevent further damage. This procedure is often done as an emergency treatment for patients with spinal fractures caused by osteoporosis or other conditions that weaken the bones.
Chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and other treatments may be used to address issues caused by painful bone lesions.
Overall, interventional radiologists can treat bone lesions using a variety of techniques that effectively and safely manage the condition. Whether it’s radiosurgery, vertebroplasty, or another technique, these procedures offer patients a less invasive alternative to traditional open surgeries while delivering the same results.
Minimally Invasive Treatment of Painful Bone Lesions in South Florida
For painful bone lesions, opt for the least invasive treatment methods possible. The interventional radiologists at Florida Endovascular and Interventional can help. Call us at (786) 534-2555 or request an appointment to discuss your treatment options. We look forward to seeing you at one of our four convenient South Florida locations.
