What is a vertebroplasty?

Vertebroplasty is a minimally invasive procedure that can reduce or eliminate back pain caused by a collapsed vertebra. Vertebroplasty can also help prevent further collapse of the vertebra preventing further deformity.

Vertebroplasty is not usually recommended for those who have back pain not related to a vertebral compression fracture, those who have an extensive fracture affecting surrounding structures, or those who suffer from an infection.

What happens during the vertebroplasty procedure?

You will have an initial consultation with your surgeon to discuss the suitability of the procedure, to communicate your desired goal, discuss options, and discuss the details of the procedure. Once all of the details are agreed upon and confirmed, a date for the procedure is set.

Prior to the procedure, a local anaesthetic and light sedation is usually administered. Once the anaesthetic is set, your surgeon will guide a biopsy needle into the fractured vertebra under X-ray guidance. This is done through a small puncture in your skin. Specially formulated acrylic bone cement is injected under pressure directly into the fractured vertebra. This is designed to fill the spaces within the bone to create a type of internal cast within the vertebra to stabilize the vertebral bone. The needle is then removed and the cement will harden, usually within 10-minutes. This congeals the fragments of the fractured vertebra and stabilizes the bone. The small skin puncture is then covered with a bandage.

The procedure takes approximately 1-hour. Patients are typically discharged from the hospital the same day and do not need to stay in the hospital overnight. However, it may be recommended to stay in the hospital for a period of time if the patient needs further observation post-procedure. It is advised not to drive immediately post-procedure. Post-procedure, it is common to experience some discomfort. You should refrain from any heavy lifting and physical activity for a least 2-weeks. Should you require any physiotherapy, you can usually commence it within 2-weeks.

How do I find the right surgeon?

The best way is to speak to a few surgeons, compare their past work and find out which surgeon you are most comfortable with. At Holiday Health, we can connect you to reputable and reliable surgeons. We strongly suggest you take into consideration that the surgeon you choose:

• is reputable and trustworthy;
• has a proven track record;
• is registered with or accredited by their local government or the governing medical body or association;
• has never been disqualified from practising anywhere in the world;
• has never been found guilty of endangering a patient’s life; and
• has never been found guilty of malpractice.

You should also include any preferences you might have. For example, you might be more comfortable with a female doctor, or someone who has more experience.

Important 

Before your procedure, you will have the opportunity to discuss your goals and the results you would like to achieve with your surgeon. Communication is vital in reaching your goals. Ensure you communicate your vision clearly to your surgeon and re-confirm the intended procedure to ensure there is no miscommunication. Your surgeon will work with you to reach an understanding about what you can expect from this procedure, and what long-term benefits and side-effects you may experience. Every patient is different, and your specialist will choose the surgical technique and treatment plan that is right for you.

Your surgeon will give you specific instructions on how to prepare for surgery, including guidelines on eating and drinking, smoking, and which vitamins and medications should be taken or avoided.

Please note. The information found on this website is purely for educational purposes only and should not be relied upon for its exactness or for its accuracy for your specific situation and/or for your specific procedure. The information provided is not a substitute for advice from your physician / surgeon as it may not contain all the known facts, risks and side effects of this procedure. Please consult with your physician / surgeon about your personal circumstances and about your personal procedure / treatment plan. We take no responsibility for any misinformation, inaccuracies, or for any loss or damage suffered by you in relation to the services we provide to you, or the information provided on our website.