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Vertebroplasty is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat compression fractures of the vertebrae.  By injecting an acrylic cement mixture into the center of the collapsed bone, vertebroplasty can strengthen and stabilize the fracture rendering it far less painful.  The procedure is usually done on an outpatient basis and requires only local anesthetic.

Similar to vertebroplasty, kyphoplasty may be used on patients with such severe or numerous compression fractures that they have kyphosis (a forward leaning posture). Kyphoplasty offers the potential to restore bone height in the vertebra and partially (usually modestly) reverse the kyphotic deformity of the spine.

One of the leading causes of back pain is compression fracture of a vertebra in the spine.  Researchers estimate that at least 25 percent of all women and a somewhat smaller percentage of men, over the age of 65, will suffer one or more vertebral compression fractures due to the natural bone loss of osteoporosis.  Until recently, treatment options for vertebral compression fractures were limited to pain management with strong oral medications, reduced activity, bracing or invasive back surgery, with only mediocre results.  Vertebroplasty offers elderly patients with a proven treatment alternative, without the need for major surgery, and with excellent efficacy in selected cases.

With the patient under a local anesthetic, a needle is inserted into the fractured area of the spine.  Using fluoroscopically-guided imagery, the vertebral cavity is filled with an acrylic cement paste. Shortly after injection, the  material hardens, creating a supportive structure that prevents further collapse and alleviates pain. The procedure often takes less than a half hour and patients are able to return home the same day, regaining mobility within 24 hours and often experiencing immediate reduction or even elimination their pain medication.

Kyphoplasty is performed similarly to vertebroplasty except that a balloon, called a bone tamp, is inserted through the needle then inflated with contrast medium (using fluoroscopically-guided x-rays) until the vertebra is expanded to the desired height. The balloon is then deflated and the space created by the balloon is then filled with the same acrylic cement used in vertebroplasty, binding the fracture. The cement hardens quickly, providing strength and stability to the vertebra, restoring height,alleviating kyphosis and relieving pain.