Vertebroplasty

Percutaneous Vertebroplasty is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat pain caused by spinal bone loss and compression fractures. Officially called percutaneous vertebroplasty, the procedure involves the injection of a biocompatible material into the vertebrae of the spine. The substance hardens once it is injected into the affected area. It helps to brace weakened or deteriorating bones and fractured/compressed vertebrae and can block the pain caused by abnormal vertebra. In 70 percent to 90 percent of patients, pain is relieved or completely alleviated.

Given the aging of the American population and the increasing number of elderly persons being diagnosed with osteoporosis. percutaneous vertebroplasty could offer a better quality of life for many patients who are suffering pain. Often used as an alternative to surgery, percutaneous vertebroplasty is virtually painless, less invasive than surgery, and has a shorter recovery period.

Percutaneous vertebroplasty

This procedure can be performed under either general or local anesthesia. Fluoroscopy, a special type of x-ray used during most spine procedures, is used to identify the vertebral pedicles and is used for needle guidance.

The patient is positioned horizontally on the operating table. You will lie facedown during the procedure, which takes approximately two hours. A contrast material or dye will be injected into the bone site to get a visual sense of the density of the bone area and highlight local anatomy.. You will be given a mild anesthesia before the procedure begins and also will receive a local anesthetic to numb the skin and the muscles near the spinal fracture. A special bone needle is inserted through the skin and positioned. The cement is mixed to the consistency of thin paste and prepared for syringe injection through the needle. Fluoroscopy allows the surgeon to be very precise, so he can watch and guide the needle and cement mixture during the injection process. After vertebral filling, the syringe and needle is withdrawn. As the cement cures (hardens) the vertebral body is stabilized. The procedure may be performed on both sides of the vertebra.

How should I prepare?

You should not eat after midnight and drink clear liquids only six hours before the procedure. You will need someone to bring you to and from the hospital on the day of the procedure. If you are diabetic, talk to your doctor about alternative options for regulating your blood sugar during this procedure.

Patients usually can return home the same day of the procedure. There are no stitches; a small band-aide will be applied to the small incision where the cement-like material was injected. Bed rest is usually recommended for 24 hours following the procedure. You will need to make a follow up visit with the doctor in 10-14 days.