Clinical Definition

Vertebroplasty is a surgical procedure used to treat compression fractures of the spine including the lumbar or thoracic spine. The procedure involves injecting a medical grade surgical cement into the vertebral body, which is intended to stabilize the fracture and decrease pain.

In Our Own Words

Osteoporosis and other conditions may cause the bones in the spine to become weak and fracture. A vertebroplasty is a surgical procedure used to treat fractures of the spine. When other less invasive treatment does not improve functioning or reduce pain, a vertebroplasty may be performed. The procedure involves injecting a special medical cement into the fractured vertebra. The cement may make the vertebra more stable and reduce pain.