Procedure Description
Vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty are minimally invasive spine procedures used to treat painful vertebral compression fractures (VCFs), most commonly caused by osteoporosis, trauma, or metastatic cancer. These procedures involve injecting a special medical cement into a fractured vertebra to stabilize the bone, relieve pain, and in the case of kyphoplasty, potentially restore lost vertebral height.
Both procedures aim to prevent further collapse of the vertebra, improve mobility, and enhance quality of life.
Vertebroplasty involves direct injection of bone cement into the fractured vertebra.
Kyphoplasty involves the use of a small balloon that is inflated to create a cavity and restore height before the cement is injected.
What It Treats
These procedures are used to treat:
Osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures
Traumatic spinal fractures in older adults
Painful spinal fractures due to metastatic cancer
Spinal fractures that are not healing with conservative treatment (e.g., rest, medications, bracing)
Symptoms commonly treated include:
Sudden or worsening mid-back or low back pain
Pain that worsens with movement or standing
Loss of height or spinal deformity (kyphosis)
How It Is Performed
You will lie face down on a procedure table under conscious sedation or general anesthesia.
The skin over the affected area is cleansed and numbed.
Using fluoroscopic (X-ray) guidance, a thin needle is inserted through the back into the fractured vertebra.
In kyphoplasty, a balloon is inflated to create space and attempt to restore vertebral height.
Bone cement (polymethylmethacrylate) is carefully injected into the bone to stabilize the fracture.
The cement hardens quickly—usually within 10–20 minutes.
The needle is removed, and a bandage is placed.
The entire procedure typically takes 30–60 minutes per level and is performed on an outpatient or short-stay basis.
Pre-Procedure Instructions
Do not eat or drink for at least 6 hours prior to the procedure if sedation is used.
Review your medications with your provider—blood thinners may need to be paused.
Inform your provider if you:
Have allergies to anesthesia or contrast dye
Are pregnant or breastfeeding
Have an active infection, fever, or recent illness
Arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure.
Wear loose, comfortable clothing on the day of your procedure.
What to Expect After the Procedure
Many patients experience significant pain relief within hours or days.
You may feel mild soreness at the injection site, which usually resolves within a few days.
You’ll be monitored briefly after the procedure and may be discharged the same day or after a short observation period.
Most patients resume light activity within 1–2 days and gradually return to normal function.
Your provider may recommend physical therapy, bone health evaluation, or medications for osteoporosis.
Call your provider if you experience:
Fever, chills, or signs of infection
Numbness, weakness, or new leg symptoms
Persistent or worsening back pain
Stabilize Fractures and Regain Comfort
At Parkview Spine & Pain, we offer advanced procedures like vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty to help patients with painful spinal fractures regain stability, function, and quality of life. If you’re suffering from vertebral compression fractures, this effective treatment may help you avoid prolonged pain or immobility.
👉 Schedule your consultation today to find out if you’re a candidate for vertebroplasty or kyphoplasty.