Vertebroplasty for Back Pain-When Is It Needed and How Does It Work?

What is Vertebroplasty?

Vertebroplasty is a minimally invasive spine procedure used to treat painful vertebral compression fractures (VCF) in the spine, commonly caused by osteoporosis, trauma, or certain spinal tumours. During the procedure, a special medical bone cement is injected into the fractured vertebra to stabilize the bone, reduce pain, and improve mobility. These fractures are commonly seen in postmenopausal females.

When is vertebroplasty/Kyphoplasty needed?

• Osteoporotic spinal compression fractures
• Painful vertebral fractures due to trauma

• Spine fractures caused by cancer or tumours

  Common Symptoms of Vertebral Compression Fracture

Patients may experience:

• Trivial trauma or sudden jerk
• Sudden or severe back pain
• Difficulty standing or walking
• Reduced mobility
• Pain worsening with movement
• Loss of height or spinal deformity

How is the Procedure Performed?

• Vertebroplasty is usually performed under local anaesthesia with sedation.
• Performed inside operation theatre in presence on a trained anaesthesiologist.
• Patient lies in prone position and local anaesthesia is given
• Using X-ray or imaging guidance, a needle is inserted into the fractured vertebra.
• Biopsy sample is obtained with special equipment 
• Special bone cement is injected into the affected spinal bone.
• In kyphoplasty,2 balloons are inflated inside vertebral body to increase its height and create space.
• The cement hardens quickly, stabilizing the fracture.

The procedure generally takes about 30 minutes to 1 hour per vertebra

Benefits of Vertebroplasty/kyphoplasty

• Rapid pain relief (like a magic)
• Faster recovery and Improved spinal stability
• Patient can start walking the very next day
• Minimally invasive procedure
• Kyphoplasty restore vertebral height.
• Short hospital stays or day-care treatment

Possible Risks and Complications

Although generally very safe, some risks may include:

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Cement leakage
• Nerve irritation
• Allergic reaction
• Rare neurological complications

Recovery After Vertebroplasty

• Most patients can walk within a few hours after the procedure.
• Mild soreness at the injection site may occur temporarily.
• Patients are usually advised to avoid heavy lifting for a few weeks.
• Regular follow-up may be recommended.
• Biopsy from bone is obtained
• Specific treatment for osteoporosis or tumour should be started as possible

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is vertebroplasty painful?

The procedure is minimally invasive, and most patients experience only mild discomfort.

How soon can pain improve after vertebroplasty?

Many patients notice pain relief within 24 hours.

Is hospitalization required?

In many cases, vertebroplasty is performed as a day-care procedure.

How big are the skin incisions?

Two incisions (on each side) of about 5mm each are made at each level.

How many vertebral levels can be treated at one time?

Up to 4 levels can be treated in one sitting.