Vertebral cementoplasty

Background and indications

Oncological vertebral cementoplasty is offered for painful vertebral metastases or those threatening spinal stability. It may be combined with tumor ablation.

Benefits

Rapid pain relief (often within 24-48 hours), vertebral consolidation and prevention of collapse or pathological fracture.

Procedure

Under local or general anesthesia, one or two large-bore needles are inserted into the vertebral body under CT and fluoroscopic guidance. Acrylic cement (PMMA) is injected under continuous fluoroscopic monitoring to verify proper distribution. The procedure lasts 30 minutes to 1 hour per level.

Risks

Cement leakage outside the vertebra is possible (into veins, spinal canal or adjacent discs), potentially compressing nerves or spinal cord in exceptional cases. Pulmonary cement embolism is rare. Infection is exceptional.

Recovery and follow-up

Same-day or next-day discharge. Weight-bearing and walking are allowed immediately. A control CT verifies proper cement distribution.

Practical information

Local anesthesia. Outpatient procedure (return home the same day).