Vertebroplasty
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What Is Vertebroplasty?
Vertebroplasty is a mini-invasive procedures that is performed for painful progressive vertebral compression fractures (VCF). VCFs happens when the bones of the spine become compressed and break. Such fractures usually occur in elderly populations. Causes of vertebral compression include:
- osteoporosis
- trauma
- steroid use
- multiple myeloma
- haemangioma
Over the last twenty years, this innovative technique to augment the vertebral bodies and minimize pain has been developed as a treatment option for refractory VCFs.
Both vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty are procedures that involve the injection of medical cement into the fracture. This injection decreases pain and restores some height to the compressed bone. The results are usually quick and long-lasting.
Vertebroplasty procedure involves only external reduction. This reduction is reached out by extension of the patient when placing him on the operating table before the material is injected into the fracture site.
How Does Vertebroplasty Work?
Vertebroplasty is performed under live fluoroscopic guidance to ensure the accuracy and safety of this procedure. The procedure is performed in our pain clinics.
- You will be asked to lay on your stomach, and your back will be cleaned with an antiseptic.
- The procedure is performed under mild sedation.
- Dr. Majid Ghauri will guide a needle toward the affected vertebral level under x-ray guidance.
- The injection needle will be seated into a portion of the bone called the vertebral body.
- During vertebroplasty, cement will be injected into the fracture.
- During kyphoplasty, a small balloon will be inflated to help restore the vertebral body height and provide a cavity for the cement that will be injected.
Risks and Side Effects
As any other procedure or medication, there are potential risks of infection, bleeding, allergic reaction, and continued increases in pain, however, these risks are very low. Dr. Majid Ghauri uses continued x-ray guidance and sterile techniques throughout the procedure to reduce these risks.