What is a vertebroplasty?
A. Vertebroplasties and Kyphoplasties are procedures which are very similar. Both are used for older patients with osteoporosis and vertebral fractures. Both fill the collapsed or broken bone with plastic to strengthen it. Both are minimally invasive and effective in relieving pain. They do not restore the normal shape of the vertebral bone in most cases (in spite of some of the manufacturer’s claims). They have some risks. The plastic can leak out and pinch nerves in the back. The plastic can cause a spinal cord injury. Dangerous drops in blood pressure are occasionally seen during the procedure. Occasionally, bits of the plastic will migrate to the lungs and cause damage there. Overall, the benefits still outweigh the risk. Vertebral bone fractures are so painful that older people may remain in bed. Prolonged bed rest has a higher risk than the Vertebroplasty or Kyphoplasty.
