Vertebroplasty is used to treat compression fractures in the spine, as seen commonly due to osteoporosis. Compression fractures cause pain and reduced functioning and may cause abnormal spine curvature that leads to other serious health problems.
It is advised to patients in whom conservative methods like bed rest, pain relievers, muscle relaxants, back braces, or physical therapy have not helped.
A special medical-grade cement mixture is injected into a fractured vertebra to stabilize it.
PROCEDURE
It is done under local or general anaesthesia. Patient is made to lie face down on the table. Under guidance of x-ray cameras (Fluoroscopy), bone cement is injected into the damaged vertebra with a hollow needle, called a trocar. In Kyphoplasty (also known as balloon kyphoplasty), first an inflatable balloon like device is inserted through trocar which opens up the space to be filled with cement.
DURATION
It is commonly done as an outpatient procedure, taking approximately one hour for each vertebra that is treated. Patient needs to lie flat on the back for two hours afterward while the cement hardens.
RECOVERY
Bed rest is needed for first 24 hrs, can then slowly return to regular activity. Lifting heavy weights and strenuous activities should be avoided for at least 6 weeks. Wearing a brace for few weeks may be advised to few patients.
RISKS
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Fracture in surrounding bones
- Tingling and numbness
- Cement leaking outside before hardening