Vertebroplasty in the management of painful bony metastases

Percutaneous vertebroplasty is the injection of bone cement, usually polymethylmethacrylate into the vertebral body. This procedure is most often performed in a percutaneous fashion on an outpatient (or short-stay) basis. Among other indications, the procedure is designated for painful vertebral compression fractures due to primary or metastatic spinal tumors. Published literature favors the use of this procedure in cancer pain management. The overall risk of the procedure is low, although serious complications (including spinal cord compression) can occur. Recent advances in technique and materials may reduce the incidence of adverse outcomes. Proper patient selection and meticulous technique are required to achieve best results and to avoid complications.