Vertebroplasty: Understanding Treatment for Vertebral Compression Fractures

Vertebroplasty is a procedure for vertebral compression fractures. Vertebral compression fractures are fractures of the vertebra bone in the spine. The bone can become distorted and compressed.

Uses

• Vertebroplasty can help sufferers of back pain caused by vertebra fractures, which can also lead to osteoporosis.

Procedure

• A hollow needle is used to inject a cement mixture into the fractured vertebra bone.

Benefits

• Vertebroplasty is a minimally invasive treatment in which no incision is needed, only a needle. It can reduce pain and increase functional abilities.

Risks

• There is risk of infection, bleeding, increased back pain, numbness, tingling. Paralysis is another risk but is extremely rare.

Limitations

• Vertebroplasty cannot be used as a preventive treatment or those with herniated disks or arthritic back pain.