vertebroplasty
Pronunciation: VER-teh-broh-plas-tee
Minimally invasive procedure injecting bone cement into a fractured vertebral body for stabilization.
Full Definition
Vertebroplasty is a minimally invasive percutaneous procedure used to treat painful vertebral compression fractures, particularly those related to osteoporosis or metastatic disease. The procedure involves the injection of bone cement (typically polymethylmethacrylate) directly into the fractured vertebral body under fluoroscopic guidance. The cement hardens within minutes, providing immediate stabilization and pain relief. While vertebroplasty can provide rapid symptom improvement, patient selection is crucial as the procedure carries risks including cement extravasation, adjacent level fractures, and rare but serious complications such as pulmonary embolism.
Usage
Usage note: Often compared with kyphoplasty; note procedural differences.
In Context
- "Vertebroplasty was performed at T12 for an osteoporotic compression fracture." — Procedure note
- "The patient experienced immediate pain relief following vertebroplasty." — Post-procedure assessment