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Percutaneous Vertebroplasty

Image-guided injection of bone cement (PMMA) into a fractured vertebral body to relieve pain and stabilize the spine.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Radyoloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Percutaneous Vertebroplasty?

Percutaneous vertebroplasty (PVP) is a minimally invasive image-guided procedure performed under fluoroscopy or CT in which a needle is advanced trans-pedicularly into the affected vertebral body and polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) bone cement is injected to stabilize the fracture and relieve pain.

It is used to treat painful osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (VCF), traumatic fractures, hemangiomas, and metastatic or myeloma-related vertebral lesions when conservative therapy fails after several weeks.

Pain relief is often immediate to 48 hours from a combination of mechanical stabilization, chemical irritation of nerve endings, and thermal effects of cement polymerization. Kyphoplasty (with balloon expansion before cementation) is a related technique.

Symptoms

Severe back pain from VCF refractory to medical therapy
Pain limiting mobility or causing immobilization
Painful spinal hemangioma
Painful malignant vertebral lesion (myeloma, metastasis)
Risk of further collapse or instability
Acute or subacute fracture (within 6 months ideally)
MRI evidence of bone marrow edema in the level of pain

Risk Factors

Severe osteoporosis
Postmenopausal status without HRT
Long-term corticosteroid use
Smoking and alcohol
Vitamin D and calcium deficiency
Multiple myeloma or metastatic cancer
Trauma with vertebral compression

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Sudden severe back pain after minor trauma
  • VCF on imaging with persistent pain
  • Inability to perform daily activities due to pain
  • Failure of analgesics, bracing, rest after 4-6 weeks
  • Painful malignant vertebral lesion
  • Suspected new fracture in osteoporotic patient
  • Need for evaluation of cement augmentation

Treatment Methods

01
Outpatient or short-stay procedure under local or sedation
02
Fluoroscopic or CT guidance for needle placement
03
Cement volume tailored to vertebra (3-5 mL typically)
04
Bed rest 1-2 hours after procedure
05
Anti-osteoporotic therapy after recovery
06
Adjacent-level fracture monitoring
07
Kyphoplasty as alternative for height restoration

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Radyoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.