Percutaneous vertebroplasty: a new technique for treatment of painful compression fractures

Vertebroplasty is an effective technique in which polymethyl methacrylate, a surgical cement, is injected into a vertebral body. This technique provides increased strength and pain relief in vertebrae weakened by osseous lesions as metastases, multiple myeloma, and aggressive hemangiomas, and from osteoporotic fractures. Infrequent serious complications are mainly related to polymethyl methacrylate leakage into the spinal canal and around vital soft tissue structures. Complications are decreased by careful fluoroscopic guidance and meticulous radiological technique. Indications should be dictated by a multidisciplinary team approach.