MIR / Patient Care / Interventional Services / Interventional Radiology / Interventional Procedures / Vertebroplasty

Kyphoplasty & Vertebroplasty

Kyphoplasty and vertebroplasty are minimally invasive procedures used to treat painful vertebral compression fractures in the spinal column, commonly a result of osteoporosis. A musculoskeletal radiologist uses image guided techniques to inject a cement mixture into the fractured bone. About 75% of patients regain lost mobility and become more active.

Both are image guided procedures performed by a musculoskeletal radiologist. Vertebroplasty injects a cement mixture into the fractured bone. Kyphoplasty inserts a balloon into the fractured bone to create a space that is then filled with cement.

Candidates for either procedure include patients with:

  • vertebral compression fractures in the spine
  • persistent pain despite conservative therapy (bed rest, pain medications or a back brace)
  • an inability to tolerate pain medications
  • a likelihood of impaired bone healing
  • vertebral compression due to a malignant tumor
  • osteoporosis due to long-term steroid treatments or metabolic disorders
  • About 75% of patients regain lost mobility and become more active, subsequently reducing their risk of pneumonia and other bedridden comorbidities. Other benefits include pain relief and a return to previous activities without physical therapy or rehabilitation.

You can Request a Consultation with an MIR musculoskeletal radiologist to learn more. You do not need a referral.

Most insurance carriers cover these procedures. Please check with your insurance provider to see if your specific plan covers the procedure.

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