About Vertebroplasty Surgery

Overview

Vertebroplasty is a minimally invasive surgical procedure aimed at treating vertebral compression fractures (VCFs), often caused by conditions such as osteoporosis, trauma, or tumors. The procedure involves injecting a special bone cement into the fractured vertebra to stabilize it, relieve pain, and restore height.

Benefits of Vertebroplasty Surgery

1. Pain Relief: One of the primary advantages of vertebroplasty is the rapid relief from back pain associated with spine fractures. Many patients report significant improvement shortly after the procedure.

2. Improved Mobility: Patients often find it easier to move around post-surgery, allowing them to return to daily activities more comfortably.

3. Stabilization of the Spine: The injected bone cement strengthens the fractured vertebra, preventing further collapse and additional damage.

4. Minimally Invasive: With only a small incision required, vertebroplasty is less invasive than traditional surgeries, leading to reduced pain during recovery.

5. Quick Recovery: Most patients experience a swift recovery and can often go home on the same day or after a short hospital stay.

Risks of Vertebroplasty Surgery

1. Infection: There is a small risk of infection at the injection site, as with any surgical procedure.

2. Bleeding: Although rare, some bleeding can occur during or after the surgery.

3. Nerve Damage: There is a potential risk that the cement could leak out and impact nearby nerves, leading to pain or numbness.

4. Cement Leakage: If the bone cement leaks from the fracture site, it may affect surrounding tissues, which can lead to complications, although this occurrence is uncommon.

5. Allergic Reaction: Some individuals may experience an allergic reaction to materials used in the procedure, such as the cement or anesthesia.

6. No Relief: In rare instances, the surgery may not provide the anticipated pain relief or improvement in mobility.

Symptoms Indicating Need for Vertebroplasty

• Severe Back Pain: Often the most prominent symptom, which may become chronic and debilitating.

• Decreased Mobility: Difficulty moving or performing daily tasks.

• Spinal Deformity: Such as kyphosis, which is an abnormal curvature of the spine.

• Neurological Symptoms: Compression of nerves can lead to limb paralysis, numbness, or other neurological issues.

Causes of Vertebral Compression Fractures

• Osteoporosis: A condition that weakens bones, making them more susceptible to fractures.

• Trauma: Accidents or falls that directly cause vertebral fractures.

• Tumors: Growths that weaken the vertebrae and lead to compression fractures.

• Other Disorders: Conditions that contribute to bone fragility.

Treatments for Vertebral Compression Fractures

• Non-Surgical Options: Include bracing, physical therapy, pain management, rest, and lifestyle modifications to alleviate symptoms and prevent further fractures.

• Vertebroplasty: Considered when conservative treatments fail or when symptoms significantly impact quality of life, aiming to reduce pain and restore vertebral height.

Procedure of Vertebroplasty Surgery

Before the Procedure:

• Consultation and Tests: Your doctor will evaluate your condition through imaging tests such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans to determine if vertebroplasty is appropriate. They will review your medical history and current medications.

• Preparation: You may need to stop certain medications (e.g., blood thinners) and follow specific pre-surgery instructions, including fasting.

• Anesthesia: Local anesthesia or light sedation will be administered on the day of surgery to ensure comfort.

During the Procedure:

• Positioning: You will lie face down on the operating table, and the area around your spine will be cleaned.

• Guided Imaging: Using fluoroscopy (continuous X-ray), the surgeon will guide a small needle into the fractured vertebra.

• Cement Injection: Once positioned, a special bone cement is injected into the fractured vertebra to fill the cracks and stabilize the bone.

• Duration: The procedure typically lasts 1 to 2 hours, depending on the number of fractures treated.

After the Procedure:

• Immediate Recovery: You will be monitored in a recovery room and will need to lie flat for a couple of hours to allow the cement to harden. Pain relief is often noticeable within a few hours post-surgery.

• Hospital Stay: Most patients can return home the same day, but some may require an overnight stay, depending on their condition.

• Pain Management: Mild soreness may occur at the injection site but typically resolves within a few days. Pain medications may be prescribed if needed.

• Activity: Patients are advised to avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting for a few weeks, but most can resume normal routines within days. Gradual increases in activity will be guided by your doctor.

Vertebroplasty can significantly enhance the quality of life for those suffering from painful spinal fractures, allowing for improved mobility and daily functioning.