This procedure is performed for osteoporotic spinal fractures not responding to conservative line of treatment, which includes rest, bracing, calcium supplements and anti-osteoporotic drugs. It is also useful in relieving pain of spinal metastases. However this procedure is contraindicated in presence of neurological deficit.
The procedure is performed either under local or general anesthesia. A no. 10 Jamshedi needle is inserted under image guidance in the affected vertebra. Vetebroplasty cement which is a specialised bone cement available for this procedure is injected under image guidance. Patient is mobilised immediately after the procedure.
This procedure offers excellent relief of pain. Complications of this procedure include extravasation of cement, neurological complications and embolism.