What Is It?

Vertebroplasty is the application of bone cement (polymethlymethacrylate) into compressed vertebrae.

The procedure was originally introduced in France in 1984. In 1994, the technology was brought to the United States, where it has become an increasingly popular treatment for vertebral compression fractures.

As people age, bones lose density and can fracture more easily. A leading cause of this is Osteoporosis. This debilitating disease affects over 35 million Americans. It weakens bones and makes its victims susceptible to fractures that are slow to heal. Of the 35 million Osteoporosis sufferers, over 700,000 will report vertebral compression fractures annually. Many of them may be prime candidates for Vertebroplasty.

What to Expect

Once a patient has been referred to The Physicians' Pain and Rehabilitation Specialists of Georgia, appropriate screening, a careful history and a physical examination are performed. X-rays are taken that may demonstrate a wedge deformity of the fractured vertebrae. An MRI may be required to identify bone marrow swelling at the fracture site and to rule out any undiagnosed disease. The MRI can also rule out major compression of the spinal cord or nerves.

Typically, intravenous sedation is used on the patient. During the procedure, the physician utilizes direct fluoroscopic guidance (continuous x-ray) to ensure the correct placement of the bone cement. Once the cement is inserted, it stabilizes the fracture and creates a permanent internal "cast". A single level Vertebroplasty can be performed in less than one hour and, after observation, the patient can return home.

Who Benefits from Vertebroplasty?

People with Osteoporosis or who have certain types of bone tumors are good candidates for Vertebroplasty. Traditionally, treatment of Osteoporosis includes bedrest, drugs and bracing. However, these treatments can add to already existing problems. Bedrest can cause muscle de-conditioning and actually accelerate the changes of Osteoporosis. Many patients become dependent on opiates for pain relief, and bracing is expensive and uncomfortable.

In properly selected patients, Vertebroplasty has been demonstrated to relieve 80-90% of pain within 48 hours of the procedure. Recovery time is minimal and few complications have been shown.

Your physician may recommend a short course of physical therapy after the treatment in an effort to decrease the physical risk factors of repeat compression fractures. If additional fractures occur, Vertebroplasty can be repeated.

In cases in which the patient does suffer from Osteoporosis, aggressive medical treatment of the disease is recommended. Your doctor may also refer you to an endocrinologist for long term management of the disease. For more information about Vertebroplasty, please ask your doctor.