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Vertebroplasty |
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What is Vertebroplasty?
Vertebroplasty is an image guided, minimally invasive nonsurgical therapy used to strengthen a broken vertebra (spinal bone). The vertebra has generally been weakened by osteoporosis or, less commonly, cancer. Vertebroplasty is accomplished by injecting an orthopedic cement mixture through a needle into the fractured bone. It is performed as a same day procedure at Unity Hospital or Fairview Southdale Hospital.
Will I have an evaluation before the procedure?
A radiologist who is specially trained in the procedure will clinically evaluate you. An MRI will be done prior to evaluation to confirm the presence of a compression fracture. The evaluation will also include a brief physical examination.
How successful is the procedure?
Vertebroplasty can increase the patient’s functional abilities, allow a return to the previous level of activity, and prevent further vertebral collapse. It is usually successful at alleviating the pain caused by a compression fracture. Patients with vertebral damage due to a malignant tumor may sometimes benefit from vertebroplasty.
How is the procedure performed?
You will be sedated and receive a local anesthetic to numb the skin and the muscles near the spinal fracture. Antibiotics are administered to prevent infection. Guided by a fluoroscope, a hollow needle is placed into the fractured vertebra through a small incision. Once the needle is in the proper location, the orthopedic cement (a mixture including polymethylmethacrylate PPMA, barium powder, and a solvent) is injected. This cement hardens quickly over the next 10 - 20 minutes. Vertebroplasty usually takes less than two hours (longer if more than one site is being treated).
What will I experience after the procedure?
For two to three days after the procedure, you may feel a bit sore at the point of the needle insertion. You can use an ice pack to relieve any discomfort, but be sure to protect your skin from the ice with a cloth. Use the pack for no more than 15 minutes per hour.
Most patients are able to bear weight very soon after undergoing vertebroplasty. They can get up to walk about 3 hours after the procedure; the radiologist can often tell at that point if the procedure was successful. In some cases, it can take a few days for the doctor to make this assessment.
How should I prepare for the procedure? - Do not eat or drink anything for two hours prior to the procedure.
- If you take blood thinners such as Coumadin or aspirin, you will have to stop the medication prior to the procedure. Contact your healthcare provider before stopping any medication to determine if it is safe for you.
- Bring a driver with you.
What should I do after the procedure? - Do not perform any strenuous activities for the first 24 hours following vertebroplasty; increase your activity gradually.
- Resume all of your regular medications. If you take blood thinners, check with your healthcare provider; you may be able to restart them the day after the procedure.
Vertebroplasty is performed in a hospital setting. Please call 763-792-1980 (north metro) or 952-345-4179 (south metro). |
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