Vertebroplasty / Kyphoplasty
Minimally invasive stabilisation of vertebral fractures using bone cement injected under imaging guidance.
Vertebroplasty / Kyphoplasty
Stabilising painful vertebral fractures with bone cement — a day procedure, no general anaesthesia required.
Same-day procedure. Significant pain relief often within 24–48 hours. Walking the same day. Especially effective for osteoporotic compression fractures.
What Is It?
Vertebroplasty injects bone cement into a fractured vertebra under fluoroscopic guidance, stabilising the fracture and reducing pain. Kyphoplasty first creates a cavity using a balloon, then fills it with cement — allowing partial restoration of vertebral height in addition to stabilisation.
Before Surgery
MRI to confirm the fracture is acute and cement is appropriate. CT for detailed fracture anatomy. DEXA scan to assess bone density where osteoporosis is the underlying cause.
During Surgery
Local anaesthesia with sedation. Small skin puncture. Needle placed into the fractured vertebra under live fluoroscopic guidance. Cement injected under controlled pressure. 30–60 minutes per level.
After Surgery
Most patients discharged same day or after one night. Walking within hours. Significant pain improvement typically within 24–48 hours. No incision to manage.
Recovery
Normal daily activities: one to two weeks. Underlying osteoporosis requires ongoing treatment to prevent further fractures. Bisphosphonates, calcium, and vitamin D management essential.
Dr. Viswanath's Approach
Used selectively for acute vertebral fractures where conservative management has not provided adequate relief. Vertebroplasty vs kyphoplasty decision based on fracture age, collapse degree, and height restoration potential.
Fractured vertebra
causing you pain?
A consultation and MRI review will confirm whether vertebroplasty or kyphoplasty is the right next step.