What is Vertebroplasty?
Vertebroplasty is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat spinal fractures caused by osteoporosis, trauma, or tumors. It involves injecting medical-grade bone cement into a fractured vertebra to stabilize the spine and reduce pain.
Conditions Treated
- Osteoporotic compression fractures
- Spinal fractures due to trauma
- Vertebral tumors causing bone weakness
- Chronic back pain from vertebral compression fractures
How Does the Procedure Work?
A specialized needle is guided into the fractured vertebra under fluoroscopic (X-ray) guidance, and bone cement is injected to reinforce the weakened structure. The cement quickly hardens, stabilizing the vertebra and reducing pain.
What to Expect
- Pre-Procedure Preparation: Patients may need imaging tests such as X-rays or MRIs to assess the fracture.
- Procedure: A local anesthetic is applied, and bone cement is injected into the vertebra.
- Post-Procedure Care: Most patients experience pain relief within hours to days and can resume light activities soon after.
Benefits
- Immediate pain relief in most cases
- Minimally invasive outpatient procedure
- Improves spinal stability and mobility
- Reduces the need for pain medications
Risks and Side Effects
While generally safe, potential risks include:
- Temporary soreness at the injection site
- Leakage of bone cement (rare but possible)
- Infection or bleeding (very rare)
- Potential for adjacent vertebral fractures over time
Is Vertebroplasty Right for You?
If you have severe back pain due to a vertebral fracture that hasn’t responded to conservative treatments, Vertebroplasty may be an effective solution. Our specialists will assess your condition and recommend the best treatment approach.
Schedule a Consultation
Contact Lone Star – Interventional Pain Management today to schedule your consultation and learn more about how Vertebroplasty can help relieve spinal pain and restore function.