TREATMENT OVERVIEW
Vertebroplasty is a minimally invasive, image-guided procedure designed to treat painful vertebral compression fractures (VCFs). These fractures, often caused by osteoporosis, can lead to severe back pain and loss of mobility. The procedure involves injecting a special bone cement into the fractured vertebra, which stabilizes the bone, provides immediate structural support, and offers rapid pain relief.
PROCEDURE DETAILS
You will be given IV sedation to keep you comfortable. You will lie face down on the procedure table. The area on your back is numbed with a local anesthetic.
Using live X-ray (fluoroscopy) for precise guidance, your doctor inserts a hollow needle (trocar) through the skin into the fractured vertebral body.
Once the needle is perfectly positioned, the medical-grade bone cement (polymethylmethacrylate) is slowly injected into the fractured bone. The cement hardens in about 10-20 minutes, acting like an internal cast to stabilize the fracture. The needle is removed, and a small bandage is applied.
TREATMENT ADVANTAGES
Vertebroplasty can provide dramatic pain relief for patients immobilized by compression fractures, often restoring mobility and quality of life.
Many patients experience significant pain reduction within 24-48 hours, as the fractured bone is no longer moving.
By relieving the pain, the procedure allows patients to move more comfortably, get out of bed, and resume daily activities.
Done through a small needle puncture, it avoids surgery, stitches, and a long recovery.
The bone cement creates an internal cast, providing immediate structural support to the weakened vertebra and preventing further collapse.
Effective pain relief from the procedure often leads to a significant reduction in the need for strong pain medications.
Vertebroplasty is typically performed in an outpatient setting, allowing you to go home the same day.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Vertebroplasty is a very safe procedure when performed by an experienced specialist. The main risk involves the bone cement leaking outside the vertebral body.
Important: Your doctor uses continuous X-ray guidance (fluoroscopy) to meticulously monitor the cement injection, minimizing the risk of leakage.
PREPARATION GUIDE
Preparation is straightforward and focuses on ensuring your safety during the procedure.
You must have recent imaging (X-ray, MRI, or CT) that confirms a painful, acute, or subacute vertebral compression fracture.
Stop blood thinners (Aspirin, Plavix, etc.) and NSAIDs as instructed by your doctor, typically 5-7 days before.
Do not eat or drink after midnight. You must have a responsible adult drive you home due to the sedation.
You may need basic blood work or clearance from your primary doctor, especially if you have other medical conditions.
RECOVERY GUIDE
Recovery is very rapid. The main instruction is to take it easy for a day or two as the cement hardens and the site heals.
You'll be monitored in recovery for 1-2 hours. You will be discharged and sent home the same day.
Rest and take it easy. You can use an ice pack on the needle site for soreness. You can walk, but avoid strenuous activity, bending, or lifting.
You can gradually increase your activity as pain allows. Many patients report significant pain relief in this period and can start walking more.
Once the pain is gone, your doctor will likely recommend physical therapy and treatment for underlying osteoporosis to strengthen your core and prevent future fractures.
Please don't hesitate to reach out and request an appointment. We look forward to meeting with you, addressing your concerns, and working together to enhance your quality of life.