Is Vertebroplasty the Answer to Easing Back Pain?

close up view of red blood cells

If you suffer from neck or back pain that isn’t responding to typical treatments like bed rest or physical therapy, then vertebroplasty could be the answer for you. It’s one of the reasons why you should talk to a vascular surgeon. 

Nearly 1 in 4 women and 1 in 20 men over the age of 50 suffer from osteoporotic fractures, which also cause chronic pain in the spine, and usually benefit from this procedure. Research indicates that around 70-90% of individuals undergoing vertebroplasty experience significant pain relief as a result of the procedure. However, this procedure isn’t always the answer for chronic neck and back pain, so we want to show you the purpose, procedure, and potential benefits. 

Talking to a vascular surgeon at  Coastal Vascular Interventional about neck and back pain could provide more answers. Could vertebroplasty hold the key to easing your discomfort? Look at how this procedure works and what results you can expect. 

What is Vertebroplasty?

Vertebroplasty is a minimally invasive procedure that involves injecting specialized cement into a fractured vertebra, aiming to alleviate spinal pain and improve mobility. However, only some people with fractured vertebrae are suitable for this procedure. Recent studies have suggested that vertebroplasty may not significantly outperform conservative treatment options, such as:

  • Bed rest
  • Pain relief medication
  • Muscle relaxants
  • Back braces
  • Physical therapy.

While some physicians may recommend this procedure, certain conditions might prompt consideration:

  • Ineffective outcomes from traditional treatments for fractured vertebrae or back pain
  • Experiencing severe or prolonged pain, leading to reduced mobility.
  • Severe complications arise from the fractured vertebra, such as deep vein thrombosis, accelerated osteoporosis, respiratory issues, loss of height, or emotional and social challenges.

Why is Vertebroplasty Performed?

Vertebroplasty alleviates pain stemming from compression fractures within the spine. These fractures typically arise due to the weakening of spinal bones, commonly associated with conditions like osteoporosis or cancer.

When spinal bones weaken, they are susceptible to fracturing or breaking into multiple pieces, often occurring during routine activities that wouldn’t typically result in a bone breakage. Such actions include:

  • Twisting
  • Bending
  • Coughing
  • Sneezing
  • Lifting
  • Rolling over in bed
person massaging swollen leg

What to Expect During Vertebroplasty

During the Procedure

You’ll be dressed in a hospital gown and might have a slender, flexible tube inserted into a vein in your arm or hand to administer anesthesia. The type of anesthesia administered depends on the procedure and the number of spinal bones involved. General anesthesia is utilized to keep you in a sleep-like state, while most people typically undergo sedation, inducing relaxation and drowsiness.

While lying face down, numbing shots will be administered to your skin. Vertebroplasty generally lasts about an hour, potentially longer if multiple spinal bones require treatment. Special X-rays or CT scans guide the needle into the spinal bone and the cement used sets within approximately 20 minutes.

In cases where the fracture is due to cancer, a small bone tissue sample may be collected for testing. Radiation treatment for bone cancer may occur either before or after the procedure.

After the Procedure

Most individuals who undergo vertebroplasty return home on the same day. It’s essential to arrange for someone to drive you home beforehand.

You might experience soreness at the needle insertion sites on your back for several days. Applying an ice pack (covered with cloth to protect your skin) for about 15 minutes every hour can help alleviate this discomfort.

Avoid engaging in heavy lifting for at least six weeks after the procedure.

senior coupl enjoying life after thrombectomy

What Are the Risks and Benefits of Vertebroplasty?

Risks

While vertebroplasty is generally well-tolerated, it is important to be aware of potential risks and discuss any concerns with healthcare providers before the procedure. Some of the risks include:

  • Bleeding
  • Increased back pain
  • Nerve damage
  • Infection
  • Cement leakage

Benefits

Vertebroplasty may help people with chronic pain from fractured vertebrae, leading to better mobility and a higher quality of life.

What to Ask Your Doctor About Vertebroplasty 

  • Is Vertebroplasty Suitable for Me? Understanding if this procedure aligns with your specific condition and health status.
  • What Does the Procedure Involve? Knowing the step-by-step process and what to expect before, during, and after the treatment.
  • Are There Alternative Treatments? Inquiring about other options available and their pros and cons compared to vertebroplasty.
  • What Are the Risks and Benefits? Understanding the potential outcomes, complications, and advantages of this procedure.
  • Recovery and Post-Treatment Care: Knowing recovery time, restrictions, and necessary follow-up care or therapies.
  • Doctor’s Experience and Success Rates: Inquiring about the doctor’s experience performing this procedure and its associated success rates.
  • Long-Term Effects and Expectations: Understanding how the procedure might impact your daily life and long-term back health.

Vertebroplasty presents a promising solution for individuals grappling with spinal fractures and associated discomfort. Understanding the intricacies of the procedure, its risks, and its benefits is important for making informed healthcare decisions. Need your back looked at for prolonged pain? See if vertebroplasty could be the answer and schedule an appointment today with one of our vascular specialists. Take a step towards regaining comfort and functionality in your life.