Vertebroplasty

Vertebroplasty is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat painful spinal compression fractures.

During the procedure, a special medical-grade bone cement is injected into the fractured vertebra, helping stabilize the bone and reduce pain.

Compression fractures often occur when the bones of the spine weaken and collapse, most commonly due to osteoporosis, injury, or cancer affecting the spine.

👉 The goal is to stabilize the fracture quickly and relieve pain so you can return to daily activities.

What Conditions Does This Treatment Help?

Vertebroplasty is commonly used to treat:

Spinal compression fractures
Osteoporosis-related fractures
Fractures caused by spinal tumors or cancer
Severe back pain due to vertebral collapse

How Does Vertebroplasty Work?

When a vertebra fractures, the bone becomes unstable and painful.

A needle is inserted into the fractured vertebra using imaging guidance
Medical cement is injected into the bone
The cement hardens quickly, stabilizing the fracture
This reduces movement in the bone and relieves pain

👉 The cement acts like an internal support structure, preventing further collapse.

What to Expect During the Procedure

Before the Procedure

Imaging tests (X-ray, MRI, or CT scan) to confirm the fracture
Review of medical history and medications

During the Procedure

Performed under fluoroscopy (X-ray guidance)
Local anesthesia with or without sedation
Needle inserted into the fractured vertebra
Bone cement injected and allowed to harden
Procedure typically takes about 1 hour

After the Procedure

Most patients go home the same day
Mild soreness at the injection site may occur
Pain relief may begin within 24–48 hours

Benefits of Vertebroplasty

✔ Rapid pain relief in many patients
✔ Stabilizes fractured vertebrae
✔ Minimally invasive (no major surgery)
✔ Short recovery time
✔ Improves mobility and quality of life

👉 Studies show that a large percentage of patients experience significant pain improvement after the procedure.

Who Is a Good Candidate?

You may be a candidate if you:

Have severe back pain from a compression fracture
Have fractures confirmed on imaging
Have not improved with conservative treatments
Have pain limiting mobility or daily activities

👉 Vertebroplasty is most effective for recent or active fractures causing significant pain.

Risks & Side Effects

Vertebroplasty is generally safe, but possible risks include:

Cement leakage outside the bone
Infection or bleeding
Nerve irritation or damage
Increased risk of nearby fractures

Serious complications are rare, occurring in a small percentage of patients.

When Is This Treatment Recommended?

Vertebroplasty is typically recommended when:

Conservative treatments have failed
Pain is caused by spinal compression fractures
Pain is severe and limiting daily function

👉 It is positioned as a minimally invasive alternative before more extensive spine surgery

Recovery & Results

Rest for 24 hours after the procedure
Gradual return to normal activities
Avoid heavy lifting for several weeks
Pain relief may be immediate or develop over a few days

👉 Many patients experience improved mobility and reduced pain within days.

FAQs

Is vertebroplasty a major surgery?

No, it is a minimally invasive outpatient procedure.

How quickly will I feel relief?

Many patients feel relief within 24–48 hours.

How long does the procedure take?

Usually about 1 hour.

Can fractures happen again?

Yes, especially if underlying conditions like osteoporosis are not treated.

Treatment Offered By Kansas Pain Management

Kansas Pain Management offers a comprehensive pain treatment plan that is tailored to each patient’s specific needs. The first step is a thorough evaluation, which includes a medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic testing, if necessary.
Treatment options may include medications, physical therapy, injections, or surgery, depending on the underlying cause of the pain.

Kansas Pain Management also offers a range of minimally invasive procedures to help alleviate pain and restore function. With board-certified and fellowship-trained physicians, Kansas Pain Management is committed to providing the highest quality care for patients suffering from pain. You can book an appointment with us at Overland Park, Lawrence, Leavenworth/Lansing, Roeland Park, etc. We also serve nearby locations like Ottawa, Missouri, Topeka, Belton, Manhattan, Lee’s Summit, Johnson County & Kansas areas.