Vertebroplasty at a glance
When a spinal bone collapses because of bone loss (osteoporosis), it causes severe pain and the patient cannot move. In vertebroplasty, special bone cement is placed inside the broken bone to strengthen it from within. This stops the broken part from moving, and for many patients the pain eases quickly.
Before the procedure
- X-rays and MRI confirm which bone has recently fractured and that the pain is coming from there
- The necessary blood tests and blood clotting tests are done
- If you take blood thinners, arrangements are made as the doctor instructs
The procedure step by step
- The patient lies face down, and the skin on the back is disinfected and numbed.
- Under fluoroscopy, a needle is guided into the broken bone.
- Watching on live X-ray, the bone cement is injected slowly so that it stays inside the bone.
- The cement hardens within a short time. The needle is removed and a small bandage is applied.
After the procedure
- After resting lying down for a while, the patient gradually starts sitting up and walking as the doctor advises
- There may be mild pain at the injection site for a few days
- Avoid lifting heavy things and bending suddenly
- To prevent falls, keep floors dry and use a walking aid if needed
Why bone care matters
Vertebroplasty treats the broken bone, but the underlying problem of bone loss remains. So a bone density test, calcium and vitamin D, and osteoporosis medicine if needed, are essential to lower the risk of other bones breaking.
This article is for general health information. Always consult a doctor for your own diagnosis and treatment.
