Vertebroplasty

What is Vertebroplasty?
This procedure is a treatment developed by interventional radiologists to stabilize broken bones in the spine caused by osteoporosis.
How is the procedure done?
A needle, about the size of a cocktail straw, is inserted through the skin and into the crushed vertebrae. A surgical bone cement is used to fill the crushed vertebrae, stabilizing it. There are times where more than one vertebra may be treated in one procedure. The procedure does not require surgery because the interventional radiologist is able to guide a needle into the correct location using special X-ray equipment.
How long does this procedure take?
Vertebroplasty takes about 1 to 2 hours depending upon how many vertebrae need to be treated. The procedure may be performed with a local anesthetic that numbs the particular area or general anesthetic. Vertebroplasty may be performed in an outpatient surgical center, although, most choose to stay one night in the hospital.
Is Vertebroplasty right for you?
If you are experiencing recent compressing fractures that are causing moderate to severe back pain, you may be a candidate for this procedure. The procedure is not to be used to treat chronic back pain or herniated disks. The procedure is usually done when conservative measures, such as back bracing, have proved ineffective.
How successful is Vertebroplasty?
Studies have shown that up to 90 percent of people treated will have complete or significant reduction of their pain.
What is Kyphoplasty?
Kyphoplasty utilizes similar techniques as vertebroplasty. This technique involves inflation of a strong balloon within a collapsed vertebral body to regain some of the height lost. This is used in select cases as every patient with a compression fracture may not be a candidate. More information? MD Imaging: 1-800-794-XRAY www.scvir.org/patient/vertebro/home.htm

Online Services

For Physicians/Providers and Referring Offices

We are proud to support our referring providers with the latest online technologies, including:

Online Patient Scheduling
MD Imaging
Online Patient Reports
Online Patient Images
MD Nuclear Imaging
Online Patient Images (PET)
Visit Physicians Center »
Immediate Opening!

  • Immediate opening for a full-time Licensed X-ray Technologist. 8:00a.m.-5:00p.m. Monday thru Friday. Great Benefit package. Please fill out the on-line application, or fax resume's to (530) 243-8161, Attn: Charlene Cundy

Featured Radiologist
News and Updates

View Archive »

Media Center