Vertebroplasty is a minimally invasive medical procedure for the treatment of vertebral compression fractures (VCF). It is believed to relieve pain by providing mechanical support and stability to the collapsed vertebra.
Utilizing a combination of local anesthesia and intravenous sedation, the surgeon utilizes fluoroscopy to visually guide a needle (typically 11-13 gauge) through the pedicle of the collapsed vertebra bilaterally and inject bone cement to strengthen and stabilize the fractured bone. The cement typically hardens within minutes.
Care must be taken to avoid leaks. Small leaks of bone cement occur in 5% to 15%1 of patients and are usually of no clinical consequence. Large cement leaks may cause potentially serious complications including compression of adjacent neurologic structures or embolic effects on the lungs, which can lead to pulmonary infarct, respiratory compromise, and death.
Vertebroplasty is indicated in patients with pain due to VCF. It is contraindicated in patients with active infection including osteomyelitis, discitis, and epidural abscess.
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1Dixon RG, Mathis JM. Vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty: rapid pain relief for vertebral compression fractures. Curr Osteo Rep. 2004;2:111-115.