Vertebroplasty

Vertebroplasty is a minimally invasive procedure that injects bone cement into a vertebra to stabilize a compression fracture of the spine. One or more vertebrae may be treated.

Preparation

You lie face down. You may receive medicine to help you relax, or anesthesia. The physician passes a needle through the skin of your back while a live x-ray called a fluoroscope shows exactly where it is, guiding it into the body of the collapsed vertebra.

The Injection

With the needle in place, bone cement is injected to fill the broken spaces inside the vertebra. A second injection may be needed to fill the bone completely. Over the next hour the cement hardens, strengthening and stabilizing the spine.

After the Procedure

The needle is removed. You may be asked to lie on your back while the cement sets, and your physician will give you instructions to help you recover.

Questions about Vertebroplasty? Call Dr. Auerbach’s office at (718) 518-5814 or send a message.

This information is for general education and does not replace advice from your doctor.

Printed from https://drauerbach.com/patient-education/vertebroplasty.html