Vertebroplasty

Vertebroplasty is a minimally invasive spine procedure used to treat painful vertebral compression fractures, most commonly caused by osteoporosis or cancer-related bone weakening. The procedure stabilizes the fractured vertebra by injecting medical-grade bone cement (PMMA), reducing pain and improving mobility.

At Urban Spine and Joint in Jersey City, vertebroplasty is performed under fluoroscopic guidance to ensure precise placement and optimal safety.

What Is Vertebroplasty?

Vertebral compression fractures occur when a spinal vertebra collapses due to weakened bone. These fractures are frequently associated with:

  1. Osteoporosis
  2. Metastatic cancer
  3. Multiple myeloma
  4. Traumatic injury

Vertebroplasty involves injecting bone cement directly into the fractured vertebra to create internal stabilization. The cement hardens quickly, forming a supportive internal cast that strengthens the bone.

Conditions Treated

Vertebroplasty is indicated for:

  1. Painful osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures
  2. Vertebral fractures due to malignant tumors
  3. Non-healing vertebral fractures
  4. Severe, persistent back pain not relieved by conservative treatment
  5. Compression fractures causing prolonged immobility
  6. Vertebral compression due to neoplastic disease

The procedure is typically considered when bracing, medications, and physical therapy fail to provide adequate relief.

Symptoms of Vertebral Compression Fractures

Patients with vertebral compression fractures may experience:

  1. Sudden or severe back pain
  2. Pain worsened by standing or walking
  3. Limited mobility
  4. Spinal deformity or loss of height
  5. Progressive kyphosis (forward curvature)

Untreated fractures can lead to prolonged immobility and complications such as deep vein thrombosis, respiratory issues, and accelerated bone loss.

How the Procedure Is Performed

Vertebroplasty is performed in an outpatient setting and typically takes about one hour.The procedure includes:Positioning the patient face down on a padded table

  1. Sterilizing the injection site
  2. Administering local anesthesia and light sedation
  3. Inserting a needle into the fractured vertebra using contrast-enhanced fluoroscopy
  4. Injecting bone cement (PMMA) into the vertebral body
  5. Allowing the cement to harden (approximately 10 minutes)
  6. Removing the needle and applying a small bandage
  7. Monitoring the patient before discharge

Most patients return home the same day.

Benefits of Vertebroplasty

  • Rapid pain reduction
  • Stabilization of the fractured vertebra
  • Improved mobility
  • Minimally invasive, no open surgery
  • Short recovery time
  • Reduced risk of complications related to immobility

Begin your journey to recovery.

Reach out to our specialists to schedule an initial consultation. We’ll carefully review your symptoms and match you with the right expert for your specific condition.

Clinic Location
100 Town Square Place, Suite 405
Jersey City, NJ 07310
Direct Contact
(908) 665-1938
info@urbanspinejoint.com
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