Vertebroplasty

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 4, 2025.

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Vertebroplasty is a procedure to fix broken vertebrae.

WHILE YOU ARE HERE:

Before your procedure:

• Informed consent is a legal document that explains the tests, treatments, or procedures that you may need. Informed consent means you understand what will be done and can make decisions about what you want. You give your permission when you sign the consent form. You can have someone sign this form for you if you are not able to sign it. You have the right to understand your medical care in words you know. Before you sign the consent form, understand the risks and benefits of what will be done. Make sure all your questions are answered.
• An IV is a small tube placed in your vein that is used to give you medicine or liquids.
• Antibiotics help treat or prevent a bacterial infection.
• Local anesthesia is usually given for this procedure. This medicine is injected into your back to numb the area and dull the pain. You may still feel pressure or pushing during the procedure.

During your procedure:

• A small incision will be made over your broken vertebrae where a needle will be inserted. Your healthcare provider may insert the needle directly into your skin to reach your broken vertebrae. Cement is then injected through the needle into your vertebrae to fill the broken or cracked area. After the cement is injected, the needle is removed.
• If an incision was made in your back, it will be closed with stitches. A bandage may be placed over the area where your procedure was done. Your healthcare provider may do an x-ray or CT scan to check for any leaks.

Drugs used to treat this and similar conditions

After your procedure:

You will be taken to a room to rest until you are fully awake. You will be monitored closely for any problems. Do not get out of bed until your healthcare provider says it is okay. You will then be able to go home or be taken to your hospital room.

• You will lie flat until the cement fully hardens.
• Medicine may be given to prevent or relieve pain.

RISKS:

Your nerves and spinal cord may be damaged during the procedure. Spinal cord damage may cause you to leak spinal fluid, and you may become paralyzed. Nearby vertebrae or bones, such as the ribs, may get fractured. After your procedure, you may have bruising, increased pain, and you may get an infection. Cement may leak into your spinal cord, kidneys, and blood vessels. You may develop a life-threatening blood clot.

CARE AGREEMENT:

You have the right to help plan your care. Learn about your health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your healthcare providers to decide what care you want to receive. You always have the right to refuse treatment.

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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

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