Vertebroplasty

Surgery Overview

Vertebroplasty (say "VER-tuh-broh-plas-tee") is done to relieve pain from compression fractures of the spine.

The doctor will make a small cut in your back and insert a hollow needle or tube. When the needle is in place, the doctor injects a type of cement into the vertebra. The entire procedure can take about an hour. The cement mixture will get hard in about half an hour.

You will likely go home the same day. You may take some pain medicine for a few days.