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

1. Anesthesia: Local anesthesia with sedation, or general anesthesia if needed.
   
   

2. Needle placement: A small needle is guided into the fractured vertebra using X-ray.
   
   

3. Cement injection: Medical cement is injected into the bone to stabilize it.
   
   

4. Closure: Needle removed; small bandage applied.
   
   

5. 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• Closure: Needle withdrawn; puncture sealed with bandage; no sutures required.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.