TL;DR Quick answer
Injection of bone cement into a painful spinal compression fracture. It is commonly used for chronic back pain. The procedure takes about about 1 hour per level and is day care or overnight. Suitability is decided after a specialist assessment.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Nikhilesh Samudrala — Consultant Pain Physician View full profile →
About Vertebroplasty
Vertebroplasty stabilises a collapsed vertebra, most often from osteoporosis, by injecting medical bone cement. It is considered for selected painful fractures that have not settled with other treatment.
| Key facts | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration | About 1 hour per level |
| Anaesthesia | Local with sedation |
| Guidance | X-ray (fluoroscopy) |
| Hospital stay | Day care or overnight |
| Commonly used for | Chronic Back Pain |
| Who to see | Dr. Nikhilesh Samudrala, Consultant Pain Physician |
Benefits
- Stabilises the fractured vertebra
- Aims to reduce fracture pain
- Performed through a needle under X-ray
- Usually a short hospital stay
Before the procedure
Tell the clinic if you take blood thinners, have diabetes, an infection, or could be pregnant. You will receive specific instructions, including whether to fast and whether someone should take you home.
During the procedure
Under X-ray guidance, a needle is passed into the fractured vertebra and bone cement is injected. Sedation is often used.
After the procedure
You rest for a short time before going home, usually the same day. Mild soreness at the injection site for a day or two is common. Follow-up checks how much the procedure helped.
Risks and safety
Cement leakage, infection and bleeding are uncommon. Further fractures may occur in other vertebrae because of the underlying bone condition. The doctor discusses the benefits and risks for you before you consent.
Myths and facts
Myth Vertebroplasty treats osteoporosis.
Fact It treats the painful fracture. Osteoporosis itself still needs separate treatment to protect your other bones.
| Condition | What it is | Typical symptoms |
|---|---|---|
| Chronic Back Pain | Back pain that lasts longer than three months, often affecting sleep, work and movement. | A constant dull ache or episodes of sharp pain; stiffness, especially in the morning or after sitting |
This page is for general information. Whether a treatment is suitable for you is decided after an individual consultation.