Vertebroplasty

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Vertebroplasty is a procedure performed to strengthen and stabilize an osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture. Osteoporosis can weaken bones throughout the body, including the spine's vertebrae.  A vertebral body weakened by osteoporosis is at risk for a compression fracture.  Vertebral compression fractures are very painful.  Vertebroplasty is a treatment for these types of fractures.

Who Should Consider Vertebroplasty?

Vertebroplasty is only appropriate in patients with a compression fracture in one or more vertebrae caused by osteoporosis. However, not all people with an osteoporosis-related compression fracture are appropriate candidates for vertebroplasty. Vertebroplasty is performed to stabilize the spine thereby relieving pain.  In some cases, vertebroplasty restores lost vertebral height or shape. Vertebroplasty may be performed on one or more vertebrae.

The Procedure

Vertebroplasty is often performed as a minimally invasive procedure; one or two small incisions in the back are necessary.  Under fluoroscopy, a kind of video X-ray, the physician accesses the damaged vertebra and injects a small amount of bone cement. The bone cement quickly hardens and strengthens the vertebra.

What to Expect During Vertebroplasty Surgery

Vertebroplasty is sometimes performed using local anesthesia, which means the patient is awake during the procedure.  Prior to vertebroplasty, medications are administered to help the patient relax, but remain awake.  General anesthesia is a sedation option that may require the patient to be hospitalized a short time.  Some patients are discharged home the same surgical day.

During vertebroplasty, the patient is positioned face down on the operating table giving the surgeon access to the spine. Cushions are placed around the patient to provide support and comfort. The surgical site is scrubbed with a special germ-killing solution. The fluoroscope is positioned over the patient to allow the physician to see x-rays taken in real time.  The x-rays are displayed on a monitor in the operating room.  Using fluoroscopic guidance, the physician accesses the damaged vertebra and injects bone cement. The procedure may be done on one or more vertebrae.  Vertebroplasty may be performed as outpatient surgery, but in some cases, a short hospital stay is required.

Recovery from Vertebroplasty

After surgery, the patient is brought into the recovery area and closely monitored.   If general anesthesia is used, a short hospital stay may be necessary.  Patients are discharged home with written "at home care" instructions. Some patients report immediate pain relief after vertebroplasty. Patients should avoid strenuous exertion for about six weeks. The patient may receive specific instructions from the physician or medical staff.

Risks and Benefits of Vertebroplasty

There are risks associated with any surgical procedure, including vertebroplasty.  The physicial discusses the risks with the patient in advance of the procedure day.  Vertebroplasty risks include bleeding, infection, nerve damage, or allergic reaction. Vertebroplasty may provide significant or complete pain relief and is performed to stabilize and strengthen the spine.

Conclusion

Vertebroplasty is similar to kyphpoplasty in that it is performed to help stabilize and strengthen an osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture. Vertebroplasty is not appropriate for all patients. Some patients who undergo vertebroplasty experience immediate and significant pain relief.

To download our Patient Guide to Vertebroplasty, click here.