Get Back to Living Pain-Free with Expert Vertebroplasty in India

Ready to say goodbye to spinal pain? Our world-class specialists are here to help you regain your mobility and enjoy life again. Contact us today through our form or WhatsApp for a personalized consultation.

GET FREE MEDICAL OPINION FROM BEST DOCTORS IN INDIA

Vertebroplasty Treatment in India: Expert Care for Spinal Fractures and Pain Relief

  1. What is vertebroplasty?
  2. What is the process for vertebroplasty?
  3. Is vertebroplasty suitable for everyone?
  4. How long does vertebroplasty last?
  5. What is the success rate of vertebroplasty cement?
  6. What is the difference between kyphoplasty and vertebroplasty?
  7. How much does vertebroplasty cost in India?
  8. Is vertebroplasty a major surgery?
  9. How long it takes to recover from vertebroplasty?
  10. What is the common complication after vertebroplasty?
  11. How painful is vertebroplasty?
  12. How long does pain last from vertebroplasty?
  13. Can a vertebroplasty crack?
  14. What is the success rate of vertebroplasty?
  15. What are the long-term effects of vertebroplasty?
  16. What are the vertebroplasty patients’ reviews?
  17. What kind of doctor does vertebroplasty?
  18. What is the downside of vertebroplasty?
  19. What are the pros and cons of vertebroplasty?
  20. What can you not do after vertebroplasty?
  21. Does vertebroplasty last forever?
  22. What cement is used for vertebroplasty?
  23. How long is recovery from vertebroplasty cement?
  24. What cement is used in fractures?
  25. What are the spine cement side effects?
  26. What are the risks of vertebroplasty?
  27. What are the indications for vertebroplasty?
  28. Who is a good candidate for vertebroplasty?
  29. What are the two indications that a patient will benefit from kyphoplasty or vertebroplasty?
  30. What is the indication for percutaneous vertebroplasty?
  31. What are vertebroplasty contraindications?
  32. What are the side effects of vertebroplasty?
  33. What is percutaneous vertebroplasty?
  34. What is the recovery time from vertebroplasty?
  35. What are the precautions after vertebroplasty?
  36. Why do I still have pain after vertebroplasty?
  37. What is the most common complication occurring after vertebroplasty?
  38. Why do I have continued pain after vertebroplasty?
  39. How long does vertebroplasty cement last?
  40. What are the exercises after vertebroplasty?
  41. Can a vertebroplasty crack?
  42. What are the disadvantages of vertebroplasty?
  43. What is the recovery time for spinal cement surgery?

1. What is Vertebroplasty?

Vertebroplasty is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to treat spinal fractures, often caused by osteoporosis. During the procedure, medical-grade cement is injected into the fractured vertebra to stabilize the spine, relieve pain, and restore mobility.

2. What is the Process for Vertebroplasty?

The vertebroplasty procedure is a relatively quick and minimally invasive process that typically involves the following steps:

  • Preparation: Before the procedure, the patient is positioned face down on a surgical table. Local anesthesia is administered to numb the area around the fractured vertebra, and in some cases, light sedation may be given to help the patient relax.

  • Imaging Guidance: The surgeon uses imaging technology such as X-ray or fluoroscopy to precisely locate the fractured vertebra. This imaging ensures that the needle is accurately placed into the correct location within the vertebra.

  • Needle Insertion: A small needle, called a trocar, is carefully inserted through the skin and into the vertebra. The imaging guidance helps the surgeon navigate the needle to the site of the fracture without causing damage to surrounding tissues.

  • Cement Injection: Once the needle is correctly positioned, a special type of medical-grade bone cement is prepared. This cement is then slowly injected into the fractured vertebra. The cement fills the spaces within the bone, stabilizing the fracture and providing structural support to the vertebra.

  • Curing Time: The cement hardens quickly, usually within 10 to 20 minutes, stabilizing the fractured bone almost immediately. The quick hardening of the cement helps to relieve pain and prevent further collapse of the vertebra.

  • Post-Procedure Monitoring: After the cement has hardened, the needle is removed, and the patient is monitored for a short period to ensure there are no immediate complications. Most patients are able to go home the same day, although some may be kept overnight for observation depending on their overall health and the extent of the procedure.

This process is designed to be minimally invasive, with the goal of reducing pain, stabilizing the spine, and allowing patients to return to normal activities more quickly than with traditional surgery.

3. Is Vertebroplasty Suitable for Everyone?

Vertebroplasty is not suitable for everyone. It is primarily recommended for patients who have:

  • Osteoporotic Vertebral Compression Fractures: Typically, patients with painful fractures due to osteoporosis that have not responded to conservative treatments like bed rest, pain medication, or bracing.
  • Certain Types of Spinal Tumors: Vertebroplasty may be used to stabilize vertebrae weakened by cancer.
  • Severe Pain: The procedure is most beneficial for patients experiencing severe, debilitating pain that interferes with daily activities.

However, vertebroplasty may not be appropriate for patients with:

  • Fractures That Are Healed or Healing: If a fracture is already healing or has healed, vertebroplasty may not be necessary.
  • Infections or Allergies: Patients with infections in the spine or an allergy to the bone cement may not be candidates.
  • Certain Neurological Symptoms: If a patient has symptoms of spinal cord compression or nerve damage, vertebroplasty may not be advised without further evaluation.

A thorough evaluation by a spine specialist is necessary to determine if vertebroplasty is the right treatment option.

4. How Long Does Vertebroplasty Last?

The effects of vertebroplasty are generally long-lasting. Once the bone cement is injected and hardened, it remains in place permanently, providing ongoing stability to the vertebra. The pain relief achieved from the procedure can be immediate and often lasts for years, depending on the patient’s overall health and the presence of any underlying conditions that might affect the spine.

5. What is the Success Rate of Vertebroplasty Cement?

Vertebroplasty has a high success rate, particularly in terms of pain relief and stabilization:

  • Pain Relief: Approximately 70% to 90% of patients experience significant pain relief shortly after the procedure.
  • Stabilization: The cement effectively stabilizes the fractured vertebra, preventing further collapse and maintaining spinal alignment.

Success rates can vary based on factors such as the patient’s overall health, the cause of the fracture, and the timing of the procedure.

6. What is the Difference Between Kyphoplasty and Vertebroplasty?

Kyphoplasty and vertebroplasty are similar procedures, but there are key differences:

  • Balloon Inflation: In kyphoplasty, a balloon is first inserted into the fractured vertebra and inflated to create a cavity and restore some of the vertebral height. The cavity is then filled with bone cement.
  • Vertebral Height Restoration: Kyphoplasty is often used to restore some of the lost height of the collapsed vertebra, whereas vertebroplasty primarily focuses on stabilizing the fracture without height restoration.
  • Indications: Both procedures are used to treat vertebral compression fractures, but kyphoplasty may be preferred in cases where significant collapse of the vertebra has occurred and restoring height is desired.

7. How Much Does Vertebroplasty Cost in India?

The cost of vertebroplasty in India can vary depending on several factors, including the hospital, the surgeon’s experience, and the complexity of the case. On average:

  • Cost Range: The procedure typically costs between ₹1,50,000 to ₹3,00,000 (approximately $2,000 to $4,000 USD).
  • Additional Costs: This may include pre-operative assessments, post-operative care, and any required follow-up consultations.

India is known for providing high-quality medical care at a fraction of the cost compared to Western countries, making it an attractive option for medical tourists seeking vertebroplasty.

8. Is Vertebroplasty a Major Surgery?

Vertebroplasty is considered a minimally invasive procedure rather than major surgery. It does not involve large incisions or significant disruption to the surrounding tissues, which reduces recovery time and lowers the risk of complications. The procedure is typically done on an outpatient basis, allowing patients to go home the same day.

9. How Long Does It Take to Recover from Vertebroplasty?

Recovery from vertebroplasty is generally quick, especially compared to traditional spinal surgery:

  • Immediate Recovery: Most patients experience significant pain relief within a few hours of the procedure.
  • Full Recovery: Patients can usually return to normal activities within a few days to a week, depending on their overall health and the extent of their spinal condition.
  • Physical Activity: Light activities can typically be resumed within a few days, but patients are advised to avoid heavy lifting and strenuous exercise for several weeks.

10. What is the Common Complication After Vertebroplasty?

The most common complication after vertebroplasty is the leakage of cement outside the vertebra, which can potentially cause:

  • Nerve Irritation: If the cement leaks near a nerve, it can cause pain or irritation.
  • Embolism: In rare cases, leaked cement can enter the bloodstream, leading to an embolism.
  • Fracture of Adjacent Vertebrae: The added rigidity to one vertebra can sometimes increase the stress on adjacent vertebrae, leading to fractures.

However, these complications are rare, and the procedure is generally considered safe.

11. How Painful is Vertebroplasty?

Vertebroplasty itself is not typically painful due to the use of local anesthesia. Most patients experience:

  • Minimal Discomfort: During the procedure, patients may feel pressure or slight discomfort but not significant pain.
  • Post-Procedure Pain: Some patients report mild soreness at the injection site, which usually resolves within a few days.
  • Immediate Pain Relief: Many patients experience immediate or very rapid pain relief from the fractured vertebrae, which is the primary goal of the procedure.

12. How Long Does Pain Last from Vertebroplasty?

Pain relief after vertebroplasty is usually immediate, but any mild discomfort from the procedure itself typically lasts:

  • Injection Site Pain: Any soreness or discomfort at the injection site generally resolves within a few days.
  • Long-Term Pain Relief: The relief from the vertebral fracture pain is often immediate and can last for years, significantly improving the patient’s quality of life.

13. Can a Vertebroplasty Crack?

While the cement used in vertebroplasty is very strong and durable, there is a possibility that:

  • Adjacent Vertebrae May Crack: The added rigidity of the treated vertebra may place additional stress on the adjacent vertebrae, potentially leading to fractures in those areas.
  • Rare Cement Fracture: In very rare cases, the cement itself could crack if subjected to significant force, although this is uncommon.

14. What is the Success Rate of Vertebroplasty?

The success rate of vertebroplasty is generally high:

  • Pain Relief: About 70% to 90% of patients experience significant pain relief shortly after the procedure.
  • Functionality: Many patients regain a high level of mobility and are able to return to their daily activities.
  • Durability: The results of vertebroplasty are typically long-lasting, with many patients enjoying years of relief.

15. What Are the Long-Term Effects of Vertebroplasty?

The long-term effects of vertebroplasty are generally positive, but patients should be aware of potential risks:

  • Pain Relief: Most patients experience sustained pain relief and improved quality of life.
  • Spinal Stability: The treated vertebra remains stable over time, preventing further collapse.
  • Adjacent Fractures: There is a risk of developing fractures in adjacent vertebrae due to the increased rigidity of the treated vertebra.
  • Minimal Long-Term Complications: Serious long-term complications are rare, but patients should monitor their spine health and follow up with their doctor regularly.

Vertebroplasty is an effective procedure for many patients, offering a minimally invasive option to manage painful spinal fractures and improve mobility.

Wondering If Vertebroplasty is Right for You? We’ve Got You Covered!

Don’t let uncertainty hold you back. Our experienced team is here to answer all your questions and guide you through the process. Reach out now via our contact form or WhatsApp for expert advice.

GET FREE MEDICAL OPINION FROM BEST DOCTORS IN INDIA

16. What Are the Vertebroplasty Patients’ Reviews?

Patients who undergo vertebroplasty generally report positive outcomes. Common feedback includes:

  • Rapid Pain Relief: Many patients experience immediate or very quick relief from pain, which greatly improves their quality of life.
  • Improved Mobility: Patients often regain their ability to move and perform daily activities without discomfort.
  • High Satisfaction: The majority of patients express satisfaction with the procedure, especially when conservative treatments have failed.

17. What Kind of Doctor Does Vertebroplasty?

Vertebroplasty is typically performed by a specialist with expertise in spinal conditions, such as:

  • Interventional Radiologists: Experts in minimally invasive procedures using imaging guidance.
  • Orthopedic Surgeons: Surgeons specializing in the musculoskeletal system, including the spine.
  • Neurosurgeons: Specialists in surgery on the nervous system, including the spine and spinal cord.

18. What is the Downside of Vertebroplasty?

While vertebroplasty offers significant benefits, there are some potential downsides:

  • Risk of Cement Leakage: The bone cement can sometimes leak outside the vertebra, potentially causing complications.
  • Adjacent Fractures: The rigidity of the treated vertebra can lead to stress fractures in adjacent vertebrae.
  • No Height Restoration: Unlike kyphoplasty, vertebroplasty does not restore the height of the collapsed vertebra.

19. What Are the Pros and Cons of Vertebroplasty?

Pros:

  • Immediate Pain Relief: Rapid and significant reduction in pain.
  • Minimally Invasive: Less invasive than traditional surgery with quicker recovery.
  • Outpatient Procedure: Often performed on an outpatient basis, allowing patients to go home the same day.

Cons:

  • Cement Leakage: Risk of bone cement leaking, which could cause nerve or tissue damage.
  • Adjacent Segment Fractures: Increased risk of fractures in the vertebrae next to the treated area.
  • No Correction of Deformity: Does not restore vertebral height or correct spinal deformity.

20. What Can You Not Do After Vertebroplasty?

After vertebroplasty, patients are advised to avoid:

  • Heavy Lifting: Avoid lifting heavy objects for several weeks.
  • High-Impact Activities: Refrain from activities that involve sudden or jarring movements.
  • Prolonged Bed Rest: Extended periods of bed rest can weaken muscles and delay recovery.

21. Does Vertebroplasty Last Forever?

The effects of vertebroplasty are designed to be permanent. The bone cement used in the procedure hardens quickly and remains in place indefinitely, stabilizing the fractured vertebra and providing long-term pain relief.

22. What Cement is Used for Vertebroplasty?

The cement used in vertebroplasty is typically:

  • Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA): A medical-grade bone cement that is strong, durable, and biocompatible. It hardens quickly after being injected, providing immediate stabilization to the fractured vertebra.

23. How Long is Recovery from Vertebroplasty Cement?

Recovery from vertebroplasty is generally quick:

  • Immediate Recovery: Most patients experience significant pain relief within hours of the procedure.
  • Return to Activities: Patients can usually return to light activities within a few days, and most normal activities within a week.
  • Full Recovery: Full recovery and return to all activities typically occur within a few weeks.

24. What Cement is Used in Fractures?

For fractures, particularly in vertebroplasty, the cement used is:

  • Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA): This is a commonly used bone cement that provides immediate structural support to fractured bones.

25. What Are the Spine Cement Side Effects?

Side effects of spine cement (PMMA) in vertebroplasty may include:

  • Cement Leakage: Can lead to nerve irritation or damage, and in rare cases, embolism.
  • Infection: Though rare, there is a risk of infection at the injection site.
  • Allergic Reaction: Some patients may have an allergic reaction to the cement, though this is uncommon.

26. What Are the Risks of Vertebroplasty?

The risks of vertebroplasty include:

  • Cement Leakage: This is the most common risk, potentially leading to nerve damage or embolism.
  • Infection: Risk of infection at the injection site.
  • Fractures: Increased risk of fractures in adjacent vertebrae.
  • Allergic Reactions: Rare allergic reaction to the bone cement.

27. What Are the Indications for Vertebroplasty?

Vertebroplasty is indicated for:

  • Osteoporotic Vertebral Compression Fractures: Particularly those causing severe pain that hasn’t responded to conservative treatment.
  • Spinal Tumors: Vertebroplasty can stabilize vertebrae weakened by tumors.
  • Painful Fractures: When pain from a vertebral fracture significantly impacts daily activities.

28. Who is a Good Candidate for Vertebroplasty?

A good candidate for vertebroplasty typically:

  • Has Severe Pain: Persistent pain from a vertebral fracture that does not improve with conservative treatments.
  • Osteoporotic Fractures: Suffered from an osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture.
  • No Severe Neurological Deficits: Does not have spinal cord compression or significant nerve damage.

29. What Are the Two Indications That a Patient Will Benefit from Kyphoplasty or Vertebroplasty?

Two key indications that a patient may benefit from kyphoplasty or vertebroplasty include:

  • Severe, Debilitating Pain: Pain from a vertebral compression fracture that significantly reduces quality of life.
  • Failed Conservative Treatments: Pain that persists despite non-surgical treatments such as bed rest, bracing, or pain medication.

30. What is the Indication for Percutaneous Vertebroplasty?

Percutaneous vertebroplasty is indicated for:

  • Painful Vertebral Compression Fractures: Particularly those caused by osteoporosis or metastatic disease that have not responded to conservative treatments.
  • Spinal Instability: When there is a need to stabilize a fractured vertebra and alleviate pain quickly.

Your Journey to Pain-Free Living Starts Here —Let’s Take the Next Step Together

You deserve the best care for your spine. Our specialists are ready to provide the treatment you need to get back to the life you love. Fill out our contact form or chat with us on WhatsApp to get started.

GET FREE MEDICAL OPINION FROM BEST DOCTORS IN INDIA

31. What Are Vertebroplasty Contraindications?

Vertebroplasty is contraindicated in the following situations:

  • Unstable Fractures: Fractures with severe spinal instability.
  • Infections: Active infections at the site of the fracture or systemic infections.
  • Allergies: Allergy to the bone cement or other materials used in the procedure.
  • Spinal Cord Compression: Severe nerve or spinal cord compression that requires decompression surgery.
  • Blood Clotting Disorders: Patients with uncontrolled bleeding disorders.

32. What Are the Side Effects of Vertebroplasty?

Possible side effects of vertebroplasty include:

  • Cement Leakage: The most common side effect, which can cause nerve irritation or, in rare cases, embolism.
  • Infection: Although rare, there is a risk of infection at the injection site.
  • Allergic Reactions: Some patients may have an allergic reaction to the bone cement.
  • Temporary Pain: Mild pain or discomfort at the injection site, usually temporary.

33. What is Percutaneous Vertebroplasty?

Percutaneous vertebroplasty is a minimally invasive procedure in which medical-grade bone cement is injected into a fractured vertebra to stabilize it and relieve pain. The procedure is performed under imaging guidance, such as fluoroscopy, and is typically done through a small incision in the skin, making it less invasive than traditional surgery.

34. What is the Recovery Time from Vertebroplasty?

Recovery from vertebroplasty is typically quick:

  • Immediate Pain Relief: Many patients experience pain relief within hours after the procedure.
  • Return to Activities: Most patients can return to light activities within a few days.
  • Full Recovery: Full recovery and resumption of normal activities usually occur within a few weeks.

35. What Are the Precautions After Vertebroplasty?

After vertebroplasty, patients should take the following precautions:

  • Avoid Heavy Lifting: Refrain from lifting heavy objects for at least a few weeks.
  • Limit High-Impact Activities: Avoid activities that could strain the spine, such as running or jumping.
  • Follow Post-Op Instructions: Adhere to your doctor’s recommendations, including any prescribed medications or physical therapy.
  • Monitor for Complications: Watch for signs of complications, such as increased pain, swelling, or fever, and report them to your doctor immediately.

36. Why Do I Still Have Pain After Vertebroplasty?

Continued pain after vertebroplasty can occur for several reasons:

  • Incomplete Pain Relief: Some patients may not experience full pain relief, particularly if the pain is due to multiple factors.
  • Adjacent Segment Fractures: New fractures in adjacent vertebrae can occur, leading to continued pain.
  • Nerve Irritation: Cement leakage or pre-existing nerve damage may cause persistent pain.
  • Underlying Conditions: Other spinal conditions, such as arthritis, may contribute to ongoing pain.

37. What is the Most Common Complication Occurring After Vertebroplasty?

The most common complication after vertebroplasty is:

  • Cement Leakage: The bone cement may leak out of the vertebra, potentially leading to nerve irritation, pain, or, in rare cases, embolism. However, significant complications from cement leakage are rare.

38. Why Do I Have Continued Pain After Vertebroplasty?

Continued pain after vertebroplasty may result from:

  • New Fractures: Fractures in adjacent vertebrae, due to the increased stress on the surrounding bones.
  • Nerve Irritation: Cement leakage or pre-existing nerve damage can cause persistent pain.
  • Incomplete Treatment: If the vertebroplasty did not fully stabilize the vertebra, pain may persist.
  • Other Spinal Conditions: Conditions like disc degeneration or spinal arthritis can contribute to ongoing pain.

39. How Long Does Vertebroplasty Cement Last?

The cement used in vertebroplasty, typically polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), is designed to last indefinitely. Once it hardens, the cement remains stable and continues to provide structural support to the vertebra for the rest of the patient’s life.

40. What Are the Exercises After Vertebroplasty?

After vertebroplasty, patients are usually advised to start with gentle exercises, such as:

  • Walking: Light walking to improve circulation and prevent stiffness.
  • Stretching: Gentle stretches to maintain flexibility in the back and legs.
  • Strengthening Exercises: Gradual introduction of exercises to strengthen the core and back muscles, such as pelvic tilts or partial crunches.
  • Physical Therapy: A physical therapist may guide the patient through a personalized exercise program to enhance recovery.

41. Can a Vertebroplasty Crack?

While the cement used in vertebroplasty is very strong, there is a possibility that:

  • Adjacent Vertebrae May Fracture: The increased rigidity of the treated vertebra can place additional stress on the vertebrae above or below, leading to new fractures.
  • Rare Cement Fracture: Although extremely rare, the cement itself could potentially crack under significant stress, but this is uncommon.

42. What Are the Disadvantages of Vertebroplasty?

The disadvantages of vertebroplasty include:

  • Cement Leakage: The risk of cement leaking, which could cause nerve or tissue damage.
  • Adjacent Fractures: Increased risk of fractures in vertebrae adjacent to the treated area.
  • No Height Restoration: Unlike kyphoplasty, vertebroplasty does not restore the height of the collapsed vertebra.
  • Limited Use: Not suitable for all patients, particularly those with spinal cord compression or infection.

43. What is the Recovery Time for Spinal Cement Surgery?

The recovery time for spinal cement surgery, such as vertebroplasty, is generally quick:

  • Immediate Pain Relief: Pain relief is often immediate or occurs within hours.
  • Light Activities: Most patients can resume light activities within a few days.
  • Full Recovery: Full recovery typically occurs within a few weeks, allowing patients to return to most normal activities.

Ready to Reclaim Your Life? Contact Us Today for Expert Care

Don’t wait any longer to get the relief you need. Our compassionate and skilled team is here to support you every step of the way. Reach out through our contact form or WhatsApp to begin your journey to recovery.

GET FREE MEDICAL OPINION FROM BEST DOCTORS IN INDIA