Vertebroplasty

Fractures in the bones of the spine (vertebrae) can cause severe back pain and loss of movement. Vertebroplasty is a procedure in which a type of surgical cement is injected into the fractured vertebrae. This can make the spine more stable and relieve back pain. The procedure is often done by a specially trained doctor called an interventional radiologist.

Before the Procedure

Follow any instructions you are given on how to prepare, including:

• Do not eat or drink after midnight the night before the procedure.

• Tell your radiologist what medications, herbs, or supplements you take; if you are, or may be, pregnant; or if you are allergic to contrast medium (x-ray dye) or other medications.

During the Procedure

• You will change into a hospital gown and lie face down on an x-ray table.

• An IV (intravenous) line is started to give you fluids and medications. You may be given medication through the IV to help you relax and make you feel sleepy.

• A local anesthetic will be injected into the back to numb the area. Then, a needle is inserted into the back.

• Contrast medium will be injected into the area. This helps show the needle and vertebrae clearly on x-rays. Using video x-ray images as a guide, the radiologist moves the needle to the vertebra to be treated.

• A cement-like plastic material is injected into the vertebra. The procedure is repeated on other vertebrae if necessary.

• The entire procedure may take several hours, depending on how many vertebrae are being treated.

After the Procedure

• You will be asked to lie flat for 1 to 2 hours after the procedure while the cement hardens.

• You will most likely be able to go home within a few hours. Or you may need to stay in the hospital overnight.

• You may feel an ache at the puncture sites for the next 24 hours. To ease this pain, use ice or pain medications as directed.

• Drink plenty of water to help flush the contrast medium from your system.

• You may be able to go back to your normal activities in about a day.