Vertebroplasty
Vertebroplasty, pronounced vert-TEE-bro-plasty, is
a new outpatient procedure for the treatment of pain
caused by vertebral compression fractures in the spine.
This minimally invasive treatment involves injecting
a cement-like material into the center of a collapsed
vertebra to stabilize and strengthen the bone.
Vertebroplasty marks a major step forward in spine
care. Until recently, patients who suffered from vertebral
compression fractures had few treatment options, which
included limiting activity or resting in bed, taking
pain medications, wearing a brace, or undergoing invasive
back surgery. These treatments often offered only modest,
short-term relief and placed prolonged restrictions
on patients’ lifestyles.
In contrast, vertebroplasty provides, in most cases,
complete, long-term pain relief and allows patients
to resume their normal activities within days of treatment.
Am I a Candidate for Vertebroplasty?
Vertebral compression fractures most often occur in
the lower and mid-spine where the vertebrae become brittle
as a result of osteoporosis or low bone mass. In rare
cases, fractures are caused by tumors or trauma to the
spine.
If you have a vertebral compression fracture in either
the mid (thoracic) or lower (lumbar) region of your
spine, you may be a candidate for vertebroplasty. The
procedure is not recommended for patients with fractures
in the upper (cervical) spine.
Does the Procedure Require Diagnostic Tests?
Yes. If you are a candidate for vertebroplasty, your
physician will ask you to undergo x-rays, magnetic resonance
imaging (MRI) and, in some cases, CT and bone scans.
Your physician carefully analyzes the results of these
tests to determine if the pain you are experiencing
is being caused by a vertebral compression fracture
rather than a herniated disk, compressed spine cord
or another back disorder.
How is the Procedure Performed?
Patients are given a mild sedative and a local anesthetic
prior to the procedure. Guided by sophisticated imaging
equipment, a physician uses a hollow needle to pass
through the skin and inject sterile liquid cement into
the fractured vertebrae. The cement fills the tiny holes
and crevasses of the collapsed vertebrae. It then hardens
and becomes permanent in approximately 20 minutes. Once
it has hardened, the cement forms a supportive structure
that alleviates pain prevents further collapse. The
entire procedure takes less than one hour to complete.
Who Performs the Procedure?
At the Institute for Spine Care, vertebroplasties are
performed by experienced, specially trained neurosurgeons
who are certified to perform the procedure. They are
assisted by a neuroradiologist, an anesthesiologist,
and a nurse.
How Will I Feel After the Procedure?
The vast majority of all patients who undergo vertbroplasty
experience significant pain relief immediately following
the procedure. Most patients continue to experience
complete and ongoing pain relief. Some patients experience
residual pain for a few days or weeks following the
procedure, these patients are given pain medication
for comfort until complete relief is achieved.
Following the vertebroplasty, you will remain at the
hospital for approximately 6 hours. Your physician and
nurses will monitor your condition during this time.
You may return home after this 6-hour period. Most patients
return to their normal activities within a few days
or weeks of the procedure, depending on their age and
fitness level at the time of treatment.
When Will I return for a Follow-up Visit?
You will return for a follow-up visit six weeks after
your vertebroplasty. Your physician will ask that you
undergo another set of x-rays and an examination to
confirm that the fracture has healed properly.
How Can I Find Out More about Vertebroplasty?
If you think you may be a candidate for vertebroplasty
or would like more information about the procedure,
contact the Institute For Spine Care at 1-800-560-BACK
(2225).
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