If you’re experiencing severe back pain due to a recent vertebral compression fracture, vertebroplasty might be the solution you need. This minimally invasive procedure stabilises fractured vertebrae, significantly reducing pain and restoring mobility. The Interventional Radiology Society of Australasia (IRSA) is dedicated to helping you find an experienced interventional radiologist in Australia or New Zealand who can perform this procedure and guide you toward recovery.
What is Vertebroplasty?
Vertebroplasty is a minimally invasive treatment used to alleviate severe spinal pain caused by new vertebral fractures, often resulting from osteoporosis, a condition where bone density is reduced.
During the procedure, a medical-grade acrylic cement is injected into the fractured vertebra using a needle guided by high-quality radiology imaging. The cement stabilises the bone, preventing further collapse and reducing the pain associated with fracture instability.
An interventional radiologist performs this procedure, providing an effective alternative to traditional surgical treatments for spinal fractures.
ABOUT
DIAGNOSIS
PROCEDURE
RECOVERY
RISKS
BENEFITSWhy Would My Doctor Refer Me for This Procedure?
Your doctor may recommend vertebroplasty as part of your osteoporosis treatment if you suffer from severe pain due to a recent vertebral fracture, especially if the fracture occurred within the last three weeks.
This treatment is suitable for both hospitalised patients and outpatients who are struggling to manage their pain at home. The procedure is most effective when performed soon after the fracture, as early intervention can better prevent further vertebral collapse and enhance the benefits to bone health and pain relief.
Vertebroplasty is primarily used for osteoporotic fractures but may also be considered for fractures caused by conditions such as multiple myeloma or metastatic tumours.
Wondering If You Qualify for Vertebroplasty?
About the Procedure
Diagnosis
Before undergoing vertebroplasty, a detailed evaluation will be conducted. This typically involves a magnetic resonance imaging scan (MRI) to confirm the presence of a fracture, assess bone density, and decide whether vertebroplasty is suitable. If MRI is not possible due to pacemakers or other contraindications, a CT scan or bone scan may be used.
Preparation
Your interventional radiologist will review your medical history and manage any conditions such as osteoporosis and bone loss, diabetes, hypertension, or anticoagulant use. You will be asked to fast from solid foods for at least six hours before the procedure and may have to temporarily stop blood thinners if needed. Clear fluids are permitted, but milk-based drinks should be avoided.
Procedure
Vertebroplasty is performed under conscious sedation in an interventional radiology suite. You will lie face down, and a needle will be guided into the fractured vertebra using radiological imaging. The cement is then injected into the bone, hardening within minutes to stabilise the fracture and filling in areas where bone density has been compromised. The entire process typically takes 30-60 minutes.
Recovery
After the procedure, you will rest in bed for 1-2 hours. Most patients experience immediate pain relief and can resume light activities within a day or two as the bone strength is restored. It is advisable to avoid bending and heavy lifting for some time to prevent future fractures.
Benefits of Vertebroplasty
Vertebroplasty offers several advantages for individuals suffering from severe pain caused by vertebral compression fractures due to bone loss:
Rapid pain relief
Many patients experience significant pain reduction immediately following the procedure.
Minimally invasive
Interventional radiology procedures do not involve major surgery, resulting in shorter recovery times and fewer complications.
Improved mobility
By stabilising the fracture, vertebroplasty helps restore and maintain bone density, spinal stability and mobility, allowing patients to return to their daily activities.
Prevents further collapse
The injected cement helps maintain vertebral height, potentially reducing the risk of spinal deformities such as kyphosis (hunched back) which can occur in cases of very low bone density.
Risks of Vertebroplasty
While vertebroplasty is a generally safe way to treat osteoporosis fractures and other vertebral compression fractures, like all medical procedures there are some potential risks and complications:
Bleeding
Though uncommon, there is a risk of bleeding during the procedure. However, the needle path is typically not near major blood vessels.
Nerve injury
There is a small chance of injuring nearby nerves during needle placement, which could lead to temporary pain, numbness, or weakness.
Cement leakage
The injected medical grade acrylic cement could extend beyond the fractured bone. In most cases, this does not cause symptoms, but it can occasionally lead to discomfort.
Infection
Although rare, infection is a possible complication. The procedure is performed under sterile conditions to minimise this risk.
Allergic reactions
Some patients may have allergic reactions to the medications used during the procedure, though this is rare.
Your interventional radiologist will discuss these risks with you and answer any questions you may have.
When Can I Expect the Results?
Results from vertebroplasty are often immediate, with many patients experiencing substantial pain relief right after the procedure. In some cases, it may take a few days for the full benefits to become apparent. It’s important to note that while vertebroplasty can alleviate pain from a new fracture, it does not address long-standing chronic back pain from other causes. The procedure is most beneficial within the first three weeks after the fracture.
Find a Doctor
The sooner vertebroplasty is performed after a fracture, the more effective it tends to be. Therefore, finding the right interventional radiologist quickly is crucial. IRSA’s “Find a Doctor” tool is designed to help you locate qualified interventional radiologists in Australia and New Zealand. Use the search fields to find a specialist near you who can provide the treatment and guidance you need.
FAQs
What types of fractures can vertebroplasty treat?
Vertebroplasty is primarily used for osteoporotic compression fractures that are a result of severe osteoporosis, but may also be suitable for fractures caused by multiple myeloma, metastatic tumours, or other bone-weakening conditions. An interventional radiologist, which you can find through the IRSA, can assess if this procedure is appropriate for your specific situation.
Is vertebroplasty painful?
This interventional radiology procedure is performed under conscious sedation, ensuring you feel relaxed and comfortable. Most patients report minimal discomfort during the procedure, and pain relief often occurs immediately afterward.
How long does it take to recover from vertebroplasty?
Recovery is typically quick, with many patients returning to light activities within a day or two as the bone density is rapidly improved. It’s advised to avoid heavy lifting or bending forward for several weeks to prevent future fractures.
Are there any long-term risks associated with the cement used in vertebroplasty?
The cement used in vertebroplasty is a medical-grade acrylic and specifically designed to remain safely within the bone tissue and fill in areas where there is bone loss to stabilise and repair the vertebrae. While cement leakage is a possible risk, most cases do not cause symptoms, and your interventional radiologist will monitor the procedure closely to minimise this risk.
Who is a good candidate for vertebroplasty?
Patients with severe pain from a recent vertebral compression fracture, especially those occurring within the last three weeks, are good candidates. Those with fractures from severe osteoporosis, multiple myeloma, poor bone health or metastasis may benefit from the procedure. Find an experienced doctor in Australia or New Zealand today.
How soon can I expect pain relief after vertebroplasty?
This interventional radiology procedure to treat osteoporosis fractures generally delivers pain relief rapidly. Many patients experience immediate pain relief following the procedure, although some may take a few days to feel the full effects.
How can I find an interventional radiologist for vertebroplasty?
Use IRSA’s “Find a Doctor” tool to locate a qualified interventional radiologist in Australia or New Zealand who specialises in vertebroplasty to treat osteoporosis and similar fractures. The tool helps you search by location and specialty to find the right professional for your needs.
Take the first step toward effective pain relief and spinal stability by finding an interventional radiologist through the IRSA today!