Overview | Preparation Instructions | FAQs
Vertebral augmentation procedures are a safe, effective way to treat stable spine fractures caused by weakened bones or injury. If conservative treatments aren’t providing pain relief and you want to avoid spinal surgery, these minimally invasive procedures offer a great alternative with additional benefits.1
During a vertebroplasty, a specialized doctor called an interventional radiologist inserts a needle into the back using X-ray guidance. The needle is placed directly into the fracture and used to inject “bone cement” into the space. The cement dries quickly and bonds with the vertebra, sealing the fracture and giving the bone extra strength.
Kyphoplasty is a similar procedure that also uses a needle to deliver bone cement to the spine. Before injecting the bone cement, the doctor carefully inserts a medical balloon into the spine near the injury. As the balloon inflates, it raises the vertebra into the correct position (this is especially important in patients who’ve lost spinal height). After adding the bone cement, the balloon is deflated and removed. The bone cement holds the vertebra in place, relieving pain while holding the bone(s) in the right place.
Many hospitals in North Carolina offer kyphoplasty and vertebroplasty procedures. But getting treated at the hospital comes with its own challenges. Parking can be confusing and expensive. Wait times are often longer, and waiting rooms may be full of very ill patients.
Carolina Endovascular offers a different patient experience. Our doctors, many of whom come from large hospitals, are experts in minimally invasive techniques. When you visit our conveniently located center, you’ll see all the same equipment you would at the hospital, operated by a highly trained, friendly staff. By focusing completely on endoscopic treatments, we can give personal attention to every patient and often help them save money on insurance deductibles and co-pays.
Before your procedure, make sure to provide the following information to our clinic team:
Our staff may advise you to stop taking pain medications like NSAIDs or Tylenol, as well as blood thinners for a short time before your procedure. We’ll also let you know when to stop eating and drinking – usually several hours before your appointment.
When your procedure is done, you’ll need to stay at the clinic for 1-2 hours under medical observation. After that, you’ll be free to go home.
An interventional radiologist is a physician who specializes in minimally invasive, image-guided procedures. After medical school, these doctors go through a residency for radiology, followed by a fellowship in interventional radiology. This advanced training ensures that interventional radiologists can provide safe, effective care with the latest endovascular techniques.
Vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty are both safe treatment options for spine fractures with low complication rates.3 The bone cement used is body safe and approved by the FDA.
Bone cement is intended for long-term use in the body and should not degrade over time.
Many insurance plans offer coverage for vertebral augmentation procedures. For questions about your specific plan, you can reach out to your insurer directly, or speak with our clinic staff at 336-499-9513.
Most patients experience pain relief in 24-48 hours and are able to return to their daily activities within a few days. However, you should refrain from strenuous activity like heavy lifting for six weeks following your procedure.
We have two centers conveniently located in Charlotte, NC and Greensboro, NC.
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