Vertebroplasties and Kyphoplasties are procedures which are very similar. Both are used for older patients with osteoporosis and vertebral fractures. Both fill the collapsed or broken bone with plastic to strengthen it. Both are minimally invasive and effective in relieving pain. They do not restore the normal shape of the vertebral bone in most cases (in spite of some of the manufacturer's claims). They have some risks. The plastic can leak out and pinch nerves in the back.

Multiple thoracic compression deformities with decreased thoracic cage threatens pulmonary compromise, impacts appetite, GI function, balance Subacute or acute fractures less than one year old yield greatest results (less than 4-6 months ideal); older fractures can also be treated Radicular pain or radiculopathy caused by a compressive syndrome unrelated to vertebral body collapse

No. Vertebroplasty is intended to treat the pain of compression fractures. Old fractures that are no longer painful would not benefit from vertebroplasty. This procedure is NOT intended for those patients who suffer from the pain associated with degenerative disc disease or degenerative joint disease of the spine.

If you have been trained in vertebroplasty and also utilize Parallax products for your procedures, you can signup at "Register with us" NOTE: ICD9 codes are not used for Parallax products. Procedure codes are used as each product is not billed out to insurers. Instead it is bundled into the entire procedure cost.

Percutaneous vertebroplasty is indicated primarily for the relief of pain related to vertebral compression fractures. Most of the treated patients suffered from pathologic fractures related to osteoporosis. However, vertebroplasty is also useful for relieving pain related to benign and malignant infiltrating vertebral lesions such as aneurysmal bone cysts, hemangioma, giant cell tumor, myeloma, or metastatic malignancy.

this point there are no surgical alternatives. Conservative therapy which emphasizes pain management over weeks to months could be considered an alternative.

In most patients, vertebroplasty provides immediate and lasting relief of pain related to vertebral compression fractures. Many patients return to their normal activities within only a few days of having the procedure, and most report continued relief from pain months and years later.

The procedure is outpatient based and typically performed in the radiology suite, where the patient lies face down on a table. A local anesthetic is used to numb the affected area of the patient's spine, where the physician inserts one or two needles through a small incision in the patient's skin. Under x-ray guidance, the physician inserts the needles into the fractured vertebra and slowly injects a small amount (~1/4 ounce) of bone cement into the vertebra. The bone cement hardens quickly.

J. Kevin McGraw, et al., Prospective Evaluation of Pain Relief in 100 Patients Undergoing Percutaneous Vertebroplasty Results and Follow-up, JVIR 2002: 13:883-886. Complication rates associated with other conditions, such as hemangiomas and metastatic bone tumors, may be as high as 10%. There have been reports of implant loosening associated with cement particulates generated by implant wear. webmaster@vertebroplasty.com | Sitemap | Resources | FAQ | Privacy Statement | © Copyright 2006.

Recent xrays and MRI are needed for appropriate imaging assessment. If a patient cannot have an MRI examination, a radionuclide Bone Scan and CT of the spine could be used as an alternative.

Vertebroplasty is covered by Medicare in many states as well as by some private insurers. Contact your insurance agent or local Medicare office for more information on your coverage.