Pain Relief
Vertebroplasty
Stabilizing Fractured Vertebrae to Relieve Pain
Vertebroplasty is a minimally invasive procedure that stabilizes painful spinal fractures—most often caused by osteoporosis. By injecting medical-grade bone cement into the fractured vertebra, this procedure provides immediate pain relief and prevents further collapse. At Desert Spine and Pain, neurosurgeon Dr. David L. Greenwald, M.D., FAANS, FACS uses advanced vertebroplasty techniques with real-time imaging to ensure precision and safety.
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What Is Vertebroplasty?
In simple terms: We insert a needle into the broken vertebra and inject cement to stabilize it.
Scientifically: Percutaneous vertebroplasty involves transpedicular or extrapedicular needle access under fluoroscopy, followed by low-viscosity polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) cement injection to stabilize trabecular microfractures and restore vertebral strength.
Conditions Treated
Vertebral compression fractures from osteoporosis
Painful fractures not improving with rest, bracing, or medications
Certain traumatic or tumor-related vertebral fractures (case dependent)
Patients who cannot tolerate prolonged immobilization
The Vertebroplasty Procedure: Step by Step
Plain-English Overview
Anesthesia: Local anesthesia with sedation, or general anesthesia if needed.
Needle placement: A small needle is guided into the fractured vertebra using X-ray.
Cement injection: Medical cement is injected into the bone to stabilize it.
Closure: Needle removed; small bandage applied.
Recovery: Most patients walk within hours and return home the same day.
Surgeon-Level Detail
Approach: Percutaneous transpedicular access under biplanar fluoroscopy.
Preparation: Confirm level with AP/lateral imaging; biopsy optional if tumor suspected.
Injection: PMMA cement mixed to doughy consistency, injected under continuous fluoroscopy; injection stopped when cement reaches posterior 1/3 of vertebra or cortical margin.
Closure: Needle withdrawn; puncture sealed with bandage; no sutures required.
Benefits of Vertebroplasty
Rapid pain relief (often within 24–48 hours)
Outpatient or short-stay procedure
Prevents further vertebral collapse
Stabilizes spine and improves mobility
Small incision—no stitches, minimal downtime
Risks & Limitations
Cement leakage (usually asymptomatic, rare complications)
Infection, bleeding, or nerve injury (uncommon)
Less effective for chronic, healed fractures
Does not restore vertebral height (that’s the role of Kyphoplasty)
Risk of adjacent level fractures if osteoporosis not managed
Recovery Timeline
Day 0: Walk within hours; discharged same day for most patients
Weeks 1–2: Pain relief continues; resume light activities
Weeks 2–6: Return to most normal activities; begin bone-strengthening treatment if needed
6–12 weeks: Ongoing improvement; continue physical therapy and osteoporosis management
Why Choose Desert Spine and Pain?
Experienced neurosurgeon: Dr. Greenwald has extensive experience performing vertebroplasty with precision and safety
Rapid relief: Most patients experience fast pain improvement
Comprehensive care: We pair repair with osteoporosis management to prevent future fractures
Compassionate support: Our team guides you through diagnosis, procedure, and recovery with reassurance and clarity
Frequently Asked Questions
How is vertebroplasty different from kyphoplasty?
Vertebroplasty injects cement directly. Kyphoplasty uses a balloon first to restore vertebral height, then adds cement.
How soon will I feel relief?
Many patients notice significant improvement within 24–48 hours.
Is vertebroplasty permanent?
Yes. The cement is permanent and provides lasting stabilization.
Can I still break another bone?
Yes, especially if osteoporosis isn’t treated. That’s why we combine vertebroplasty with a full bone health plan.
How does Desert Spine and Pain perform vertebroplasty differently?
We use microsurgical precision, real-time fluoroscopy, and neurosurgical expertise to ensure safe, effective results.
Dr. David L. Greenwald, MD
Neuro-Spine Surgeon
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If you’re struggling with back pain caused by a spinal compression fracture, vertebroplasty may be an effective and immediate solution. Dr. Greenwald and his compassionate team will evaluate your condition, review imaging, and determine whether this procedure is right for you. Every step you take toward treatment brings you closer to comfort, confidence, and restored mobility. Schedule your consultation today and learn how Dr. Greenwald’s expertise in vertebroplasty can help you regain strength and live pain-free.
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Over 30 Years Experience in Orthopedic & Neuro Spine Surgeries.
Dr. David L. Greenwald, M.D., F.A.C.S.
Neurosurgeon | Spine Surgeon | Regenerative Medicine
Dr. David L. Greenwald, MD, FACS, is a board-certified spine surgeon with advanced expertise in vertebroplasty, a minimally invasive procedure used to stabilize vertebral compression fractures and relieve pain caused by osteoporosis, trauma, or spinal tumors. During the procedure, Dr. Greenwald uses image-guided precision to inject medical-grade bone cement into the fractured vertebra, restoring strength and preventing further collapse. This technique often provides rapid pain relief and allows patients to return to normal activities within days. Dr. Greenwald’s skill and commitment to minimally invasive care have helped patients throughout South Florida experience safer recoveries, improved posture, and enhanced spinal stability.
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