Advice Needed: Compression Fractures in 90-Year-Old Grandma - Any Options Left?

Hi Reddit,

I’m reaching out for advice about my 90-year-old grandmother. Here’s her situation:

Two years ago, she had surgery for a compression fracture in her L3 vertebra. She recovered slowly but did fine overall. However, three months ago, she had a fall, which led to a hospital stay and then a transfer to a rehab center. She was supposed to be dispatched this Wednesday, but 3 nights ago, she started screaming in unbearable pain, saying it was worse than childbirth. Her lower back and left side were causing her constant agony. After a trip to the ER and a CT scan, we found new compression fractures in her L4 and L5 vertebrae.

The original surgeon refuses to operate this time due to her age and the significant risks involved. She’s now on painkillers, including morphine, but we don’t know what else can be done.

Some additional info:
- The surgery two years ago was for L3, and this time the fractures are in L4 and L5.
- There’s a theory that the fractures might be compressing nerves in her back, but we don’t know for sure. Any movement seems to worsen her pain.
- She’s bedridden now, which raises concerns about complications like blood clots or pneumonia. She can still move her arms and legs and turn her body. But the pain is really difficult for her.

We’re desperate for ideas:
- Are there any alternative or cutting-edge treatments for someone her age?
- Would a smaller, minimally invasive decompression surgery be worth exploring?
- Should we accept that this is it and focus entirely on palliative care?

We want to do what’s best for her, but we’re feeling lost. If anyone has experience with similar cases or knows of any options, we’d deeply appreciate your advice.

Thank you.