How does vertebroplasty work?

After the treatment area is cleaned and numbed, the clinician uses imaging to guide a needle through the skin into the targeted vertebra. A measured amount of [Bone Cement](/materials/bone-cement/) is delivered into the weakened bone. The material hardens in place, supporting the internal structure rather than replacing the whole vertebra. Vertebroplasty is mainly considered for a painful [Vertebral Compression Fracture](/conditions/vertebral-compression-fracture/) after an assessment of the fracture and other treatment options.

The procedure does not restore all lost height or repair every source of back pain. Pain may come from more than one spinal level, muscle strain or another condition, so imaging and examination help determine whether cement treatment is appropriate.

Tell the treating team about medicines that affect bleeding, allergies, infection, pregnancy or other health conditions. Follow instructions about eating, drinking and medicines before the procedure. Arrange help for the first part of recovery if sedation is planned, and follow advice about lifting, walking and returning to activity. Ask how the treated vertebra will be monitored and whether bone-strengthening care is needed to reduce further injury risk. [Kyphoplasty](/treatments/spine-care/kyphoplasty/) is a related procedure that may use a different sequence to create space before cement placement.

Contact the treating team promptly for fever, increasing redness or drainage at the needle site, worsening back pain, new leg pain, numbness or weakness. Seek emergency care for trouble breathing, sudden chest pain, loss of bladder or bowel control or rapidly developing weakness. These symptoms need assessment rather than waiting for routine follow-up.

Which vertebra is causing my pain, and what confirms that? What benefits and risks apply to me? How does vertebroplasty compare with observation, bracing or kyphoplasty?