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Conditions & Treatments

Vertebroplasty

What Is Vertebroplasty?

Vertebroplasty is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat painful vertebral compression fractures in the spine. During the procedure, medical-grade bone cement is injected into the fractured vertebra to stabilize and strengthen the bone.

Vertebral compression fractures occur when a vertebra weakens and collapses. They are commonly associated with osteoporosis, which causes bones to become weaker and more susceptible to fracture. Vertebrae may also become weakened by certain tumors or other conditions affecting bone strength.

Vertebral Compression Fracture Symptoms

A vertebral compression fracture can cause sudden or persistent back pain, particularly near the location of the affected vertebra. Multiple compression fractures may also contribute to loss of height or changes in the curvature of the spine.

A doctor may use a physical examination and imaging studies, such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans, to evaluate the spine and determine if a compression fracture may benefit from vertebroplasty.  

When Is Vertebroplasty Recommended?

Vertebroplasty may be considered for patients with a painful vertebral compression fracture that has not improved with nonsurgical treatments, such as activity modification, medication, or bracing. It may also be used in certain cases when a vertebra has been weakened by osteoporosis or a tumor.

Your doctor will evaluate your symptoms, imaging results, overall health, and response to previous treatment to determine if vertebroplasty is appropriate for you.

What Happens During Vertebroplasty?

Vertebroplasty can be performed using sedation and local anesthesia. Fluoroscopy, a special type of X-ray imaging, is used to identify the affected vertebra and guide the procedure.

A special bone needle is inserted through the skin and carefully positioned within the fractured vertebra. Bone cement is then prepared and injected through the needle. Fluoroscopy allows the doctor to monitor the needle and cement during the injection process. Once the cement has been injected, the needle is withdrawn. As the cement hardens, it helps stabilize and strengthen the vertebral body.

For specialized spine care in Boca Raton, Deerfield Beach, and Plantation, Florida, please call (561) 549-9090 or request an appointment online.