What should you know about percutaneous vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty?

In vertebroplasty, cement is delivered through a needle into the affected vertebra. Kyphoplasty first uses a small expandable balloon to create a space before cement is placed; this can help address a collapsed vertebral shape in selected cases. Both procedures are performed through small skin openings and require imaging to guide placement. They are considered only after an assessment of the fracture, pain pattern, bone health, nerve status, and other treatment options.

Tell the clinician about blood-thinning medicines, allergies, infection, pregnancy possibility, and trouble lying flat. Ask which medicines to pause and when to stop eating or drinking. After the procedure, follow instructions about walking, lifting, bathing, and medicines. A plan for osteoporosis or another cause of weak bone may be needed because cement supports one vertebra but does not strengthen the whole skeleton. Keep the scheduled review even if pain improves.

Call the treatment team for fever, increasing redness or drainage at the needle site, new pain that is not settling, or difficulty walking. Seek emergency help for new weakness or numbness, loss of bladder or bowel control, severe chest pain, or sudden breathing difficulty.

Is my fracture suitable for cement treatment, and why would you choose vertebroplasty or kyphoplasty? What will happen to my medicines around the procedure? When can I resume walking, driving, and lifting? How will the underlying bone problem be treated?