Vertebroplasty & Kyphoplasty

Vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty stabilize vertebral compression fractures and relieve pain caused by osteoporosis or malignancy. At The Medical Group of New Jersey, these procedures help patients regain mobility and reduce reliance on pain medication.

Symptom Onset & Initial Evaluation

Vertebral compression fractures may occur suddenly or develop gradually, and symptoms can range from mild discomfort to severe, disabling pain. Patients are often referred for evaluation when they experience:

• Sudden onset of back pain or worsening chronic back pain
• Loss of height or noticeable spinal curvature (kyphosis)
• Reduced mobility or difficulty standing, walking, or performing daily activities
• Back pain following a minor fall, lifting incident, or minimal trauma—especially in patients with known osteoporosis

During the initial evaluation, providers assess pain severity, functional limitations, recent injuries, and underlying risk factors such as osteoporosis, long-term steroid use, or known malignancy. This helps determine whether the fracture is likely contributing to symptoms and whether intervention may be beneficial.

Diagnosis

Accurate diagnosis is essential to confirm that the fracture is recent and responsible for the patient’s pain. Imaging studies typically include:

• MRI of the spine to determine fracture acuity, identify bone edema, and rule out other causes of pain
• CT scanning when MRI is not feasible or when detailed bone anatomy is needed
• Additional evaluation for osteoporosis or malignancy when fractures appear atypical or recurrent

These studies help distinguish fractures that are likely to benefit from intervention from those better managed conservatively.

Treatment Guidance & Management

When appropriate, vertebroplasty or kyphoplasty may be recommended to stabilize the fracture and relieve pain. During these procedures:

• A needle is guided into the fractured vertebra using real-time imaging
• Medical-grade bone cement is injected to stabilize the bone
• In kyphoplasty, a balloon may first be used to restore vertebral height before cement placement in selected cases

Both procedures are designed to reinforce the weakened vertebra, reduce painful micro-movement at the fracture site, and improve structural stability.

Ongoing Management & Monitoring

After treatment at The Medical Group of New Jersey, follow-up care focuses on both symptom relief and long-term spine health. This typically includes:

• Monitoring pain reduction and improvement in mobility and daily function
• Evaluation and treatment of underlying osteoporosis to reduce future fracture risk
• Referral to physical therapy when appropriate to improve strength, posture, and balance

This comprehensive approach not only addresses immediate pain but also helps prevent additional fractures and supports long-term recovery.