Overview
Vertebroplasty is used to treat certain types of vertebral compression fractures, most commonly caused by osteoporosis, trauma, or occasionally tumours. By injecting medical grade cement into the affected vertebra, vertebroplasty aims to stabilise the bone and reduce movement at the fracture site, which may help ease pain.
It is typically considered when symptoms persist despite appropriate conservative care such as rest, bracing, and medication. In selected cases, vertebroplasty may also support improved posture and function by reinforcing weakened spinal segments.
Who This Treatment Helps
Vertebroplasty may be suitable for people with:
- Painful vertebral compression fractures confirmed on imaging
- Persistent pain not improved with conservative treatment
- Difficulty standing, walking, or performing daily tasks due to spinal pain
- Osteoporotic fractures causing ongoing discomfort
- Certain tumour related vertebral fractures
A consultation is required to confirm suitability and determine whether vertebroplasty is the most appropriate option.
What Is Vertebroplasty
Vertebroplasty is a minimally invasive spinal procedure in which medical grade bone cement is injected into a fractured vertebra. The cement hardens quickly, helping to stabilise the bone and reduce painful micro movement.
Imaging guidance such as fluoroscopy or CT is used to ensure accurate placement. The procedure is usually performed under local anaesthetic, with sedation depending on individual needs.
Vertebroplasty does not treat the underlying cause of osteoporosis or prevent future fractures, but it may help manage pain from an existing fracture and improve function in selected patients.
What to Expect During the Procedure
Your consultant will review scans, symptoms, and medical history before treatment. During the procedure:
- You lie face down on the procedure table
- Local anaesthetic is applied to numb the skin
- A fine needle is guided into the fractured vertebra
- Medical grade cement is injected into the bone
- The cement sets within minutes
- You are monitored briefly before going home
After the Procedure
Most people can walk shortly after vertebroplasty. Some experience immediate improvement, while others notice gradual change over the following days.
It is normal to experience:
- Mild soreness at the injection site
- Temporary stiffness
- Fatigue for a short period
Your consultant may advise:
- Avoiding heavy lifting for a short time
- Gradual return to normal activities
- Ongoing osteoporosis management if relevant
- Physiotherapy to support posture and mobility
Benefits of Vertebroplasty
- May reduce pain from vertebral compression fractures
- Can improve mobility and daily function
- Minimally invasive with short recovery
- May reduce reliance on pain medication
- Can support posture in selected cases
- Often performed as a day case procedure
Possible Risks and Side Effects
Possible risks of vertebroplasty include:
- Temporary soreness or bruising
- Cement leakage, usually minor and without symptoms
- Infection, which is rare
- Bleeding
- Allergic reaction to medications or cement
- Very rare nerve irritation or compression
All risks are discussed during consultation so that treatment decisions are made clearly and safely.
When to Consider Other Options
Vertebroplasty may not be suitable if:
- The fracture is old and healed
- Pain originates from another spinal structure
- There is significant spinal canal compromise
- There is an active infection
Other options may include conservative care, bracing, physiotherapy, or alternative minimally invasive procedures. In many cases, a combined approach offers the best long term outcome.
Safety Note
Please inform your consultant if you take blood thinning medication, have diabetes, allergies, are pregnant, or have a recent infection. You may need someone to drive you home depending on whether sedation is used.
Arrange a consultation to discuss whether vertebroplasty may be suitable for you.
You can also explore our low back pain treatments, view all pain treatments, or learn more about our vertebroplasty service.