Vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty are used for the treatment of vertebral compression fractures attributable to osteoporosis or pathologic conditions. Bone cement is injected into the vertebral body to decrease back pain and prevent further vertebral body height loss. Equipment includes C-arm, radiolucent OR bed, and x-ray vests for staff as well as bone biopsy needles, vertebroplasty system, and cement injection system. An important consideration relevant to this interventional radiology-assisted procedure would be:

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Positioning of the patient requires careful vigilance to prevent skin breakdown and nerve damage. After the administration of anesthetic, the patient is positioned prone with hyperextension of the vertebral compression fracture on the radiolucent OR bed. Full body shielding would interfere with radiolucency of the operative site. These procedures do not require postprocedure casting. Armboards would interfere with movement of the C-arm image intensifier.

Vertebroplasty and Kyphoplasty Are Used for the Treatment of Vertebral