In this lateral X-ray of the spine, a needle (the horizontal line, midway, left to center) is placed within a partially collapsed vertebral body. The dark, round body, visible in the center of the image, is the opacified cement, which was injected into the partially collapsed vertebra.

At Winthrop, percutaneous vertebroplasty is performed by A. Orlando Ortiz, MD, MBA, Chairman of the Department of Radiology, and Donald Price, MD, Chief, Neuroradiology Section. Both radiologists are Board certified and have undergone advanced training and certification in the performance of percutaneous vertebroplasty. An outpatient procedure, percutaneous vertebroplasty requires local anesthesia and mild intravenous sedation. Only a small skin incision is needed. The patient remains awake throughout the 45-minute procedure. Patients can return home after a four- hour recovery period at the Hospital.

Using X-ray guidance, the medical practitioner inserts a delicate needle into the spinal area, directly into the partially compressed vertebral body, and injects a sterile, bio-compatible liquid cement. Similar to an acrylic in function, the substance seals the fracture.

“The injected cement forms an ‘internal cast’ within the vertebral body, strengthening it and providing pain relief. It helps relieve the symptoms, but cannot correct osteoporosis,” explained Garry Schwall, RPAC, Administrator for Surgical Services. “The procedure cannot prevent future injury to other vertebral levels.”

As the treatment is specifically for symptomatic vertebral body compression fractures, vertebroplasty is not provided for other causes of back pain, such as disc degeneration or herniation.

Patients who are wondering whether the procedure would help them must undergo preliminary X-ray examination and MRI scans. A pre-procedure consultation at Winthrop includes a complete review of X-rays and MRI scans; a physical examination of the back, legs, and arms; a complete explanation of the procedure; the obtaining of the patient’s informed consent; and pre-procedure laboratory blood tests.

“At Winthrop, the Institute for Neurosciences combines the clinical, educational, and research capabilities of several related disciplines, including the Divisions of Neuroradiology, Neurosurgery, and Neurology. With the further development of the Institute for Neurosciences, these disciplines will be even more closely aligned, making possible the sharing of knowledge, the introduction of more sophisticated techniques and procedures, and the acquisition of advanced technology, such as vertebroplasty.”

For further information on percutaneous vertebroplasty, contact Garry Schwall, RPAC, at (516) 663-3893.