Spine Surgeon
vertebroplasty
Vertebroplasty
Vertebroplasty is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to treat compression fractures in the spine, typically caused by osteoporosis or cancer. During vertebroplasty, a special type of medical cement is injected into the fractured vertebra to stabilize it and relieve pain. The cement hardens quickly, providing support to the fractured bone and helping to restore vertebral height. This procedure can significantly reduce pain and improve mobility for patients suffering from vertebral compression fractures.
Who needs Vertebroplasty?
- Chronic painful vertebral compression fractures with non-union.
- Progressive kyphosis exceeding 20 degrees in subacute vertebral fractures.
- Cases involving multiple pathological vertebral fractures.
- Patients with persistent back pain caused by vertebral compression fractures, refractory to medical management.
Which types of cement are commonly used in vertebroplasty?
Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA): PMMA cement is the most commonly used type in vertebroplasty. It’s a durable, quick-setting cement that provides immediate stabilization to the fractured vertebra.
Calcium phosphate cement: This type of cement is an alternative to PMMA and is sometimes used in vertebroplasty. Calcium phosphate cement has the advantage of being biocompatible and resorbable over time, which may be beneficial in certain cases.
Both types of cement have their own advantages and considerations, and the choice between them depends on factors such as the patient’s health status, the extent of the fracture, and the surgeon’s preference.
What is the procedure of vertebroplasty?
During the procedure, the patient is positioned face down on the operating table. Using fluoroscopy for guidance, the surgeon makes a small incision in the skin over the fractured vertebra and inserts a needle into the affected area. Special medical-grade bone cement is then injected through the needle into the fractured vertebra. The cement quickly hardens, providing structural support to the weakened vertebra and reducing pain.
Post-procedure, patients are monitored for a brief period to ensure there are no complications. They may experience immediate pain relief or notice a gradual improvement over the following days as the cement sets and stabilizes the fractured vertebra. Vertebroplasty is often an effective option for individuals suffering from debilitating back pain due to vertebral compression fractures, offering rapid pain relief and improved quality of life with minimal recovery time.
What is the success rate of vertebroplasty?
Studies indicate that over 90% and even higher success rates have been reported for significantly reducing pain associated with vertebral compression fractures. Most patients report significant pain reduction within a few hours of the procedure, and they are often able to resume their normal activities within a few days. However, it’s essential to note that the success rate and potential complications can vary depending on each patient’s health and other factors.
What are the benefits of vertebroplasty?
- Rapid pain relief: Many patients experience significant pain reduction shortly after the procedure.
- Improved vertebral stability: The cement injected during vertebroplasty stabilizes fractured vertebrae, reducing the risk of further collapse.
- Minimal recovery time: Patients can often resume their normal activities within a few days after vertebroplasty.
- Minimally invasive: Vertebroplasty is performed using small incisions and typically does not require general anesthesia, resulting in less trauma and faster recovery.
- High success rates: Studies have shown success rates of over 90% in significantly reducing pain associated with vertebral compression fractures.
Find relief from vertebral compression fractures with vertebroplasty at Synapse Spine Mumbai. Our top spine specialists use minimally invasive techniques to stabilize fractured vertebrae, reducing pain and improving spinal function. Book your appointment to discuss vertebroplasty as a treatment option for your spinal condition.