A compression fracture can leave a vertebra painful and collapsed, most often because of weak bones, a fall, or a tumour. In vertebroplasty, medical bone cement is injected through a needle into the fractured bone to steady it. Kyphoplasty adds a small balloon that is inflated first to create space and restore some of the lost height before the cement goes in.
Who it may help
- A recent, painful vertebral compression fracture confirmed on MRI or CT
- Sudden mid or lower back pain that is worse on standing or walking and better lying down
- Difficulty getting up or walking without help because of the pain
- A fracture caused by osteoporosis, an injury, or a tumour in the spine
- People for whom open surgery would be risky, such as older patients
Conditions treated
- Osteoporotic compression fractures
- Fractures after injury
- Fractures caused by spread of cancer to the spine
- Myeloma weakening the vertebrae
- Painful fractures that are not healing with rest
- Wedge fractures causing forward bending of the spine
How the procedure is done
- Imaging MRI or CT confirms that the fracture is recent and suitable.
- Anaesthesia Local anaesthesia with sedation, or a short general anaesthetic.
- Needle placement Under X-ray guidance, a needle is passed through a tiny skin puncture into the fractured vertebra.
- Cementing Bone cement is injected to stabilise the bone. In kyphoplasty a balloon is inflated first.
- Duration The procedure itself usually takes 30 to 60 minutes.
Before the procedure
- MRI of the spine and blood tests
- Review of your fracture history and any blood-thinning medicines
- Counselling on benefits, risks and alternatives
- Admission the day before or the same day
Recovery: what to expect
- Many people stay in hospital for about one day.
- Pain often eases within a day or two.
- Walking usually restarts within 12 to 24 hours.
- Rest for a few days at home, then build up light activity.
- Back to usual routine within about 2 to 3 weeks.
- Follow-up imaging at about 1 and 3 months.
These are typical timings. Your own plan depends on your condition, your general health and the operation chosen, and Dr. Chakraborty will go through it with you.
Risks to know about
Every operation carries risk. The ones most relevant here are:
- Leakage of cement outside the vertebra, rarely pressing on a nerve
- A new fracture in a neighbouring vertebra, especially with osteoporosis
- Infection or bleeding at the puncture site
- Allergic reaction or a temporary increase in pain
Your own risks depend on your health and your scans, and are explained in detail before you decide on anything.
Common questions
Are there stitches or a big cut?
No. It is done through a needle puncture. There is no open wound to heal.
Will it stop other fractures?
It treats the fracture that has already happened. Treating osteoporosis with medicines, calcium, vitamin D and exercise is needed to lower the risk of new ones.
Is the cement safe?
The cement is medical-grade and widely used. It hardens quickly and supports the bone. Rare complications are explained before the procedure.
Can it be done for cancer-related fractures?
Yes, it is often used to reduce pain and strengthen a vertebra weakened by a tumour, usually together with cancer treatment.
This page is general information to help you prepare for a consultation. It is not medical advice and does not replace an examination. Every plan is made for the individual patient.