Vertebroplasty

Vertebroplasty is a medical procedure where a special cement is injected into a fractured vertebra — with the goal of relieving your spinal pain and restoring your mobility.

Procedure

Vertebroplasty is an outpatient procedure performed under local or general anesthesia. Using X-ray guidance, a small needle containing specially formulated acrylic bone cement is injected into the vertebra. The cement hardens within 15 minutes and stabilizes the fracture, similar to an internal cast.

Indications

Vertebroplasty is used to treat pain caused by vertebral compression fractures. These fractures, which can occur in any vertebra, can cause severe pain and immobility. The procedure is also used to treat certain types of bone tumors.

Risks

As with any surgical procedure, there are risks associated with vertebroplasty. These include infection, bleeding, increased back pain, paralysis due to nerve damage, cement leaking into surrounding areas, and pulmonary embolism if cement enters the bloodstream.

Effectiveness

Studies show that vertebroplasty provides some pain relief in some patients, but the procedure is not effective for everyone. Some studies suggest that vertebroplasty is no more effective than a placebo for relieving pain and improving daily functioning.

See also

• Kyphoplasty
• Osteoporosis
• Spinal fracture

References

Vertebroplasty Resources
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