Every MRI explained before you decide
Non-surgical options are always tried first
The treatment
What is Vertebroplasty and Kyphoplasty?
Vertebroplasty injects special bone cement into a broken vertebra (spine bone) through a thin needle. The cement hardens in minutes and supports the bone from inside, which reduces fracture pain.
Kyphoplasty first opens a small balloon inside the bone to restore some of its height, and then fills the space with cement. Both are done with live X-ray guidance, without an open cut.
Who needs it
- Elderly patients with sudden back pain from an osteoporosis fracture
- Spine fracture pain not improving with rest and a brace
- Fractures after chemotherapy or radiotherapy
- Patients who cannot walk or sit because of fracture pain
Benefits
Why patients choose it
- No open cut, only a needle mark
- Pain often eases the same day
- Helps elderly patients walk again quickly
- Prevents further collapse of the bone
Recovery
What recovery usually looks like
Same day
Walk and often go home
Week 1
Normal light activity
Ongoing
Treatment for osteoporosis to protect other bones
Follow-up
Bone health check and exercises
Every patient is different. Dr. Nitish gives you a personal recovery plan.
Cost and insurance
Most health insurance and TPA policies cover spine treatment, and cashless is usually possible. See the full cost guide for details.
Questions patients ask
Vertebroplasty and Kyphoplasty: your questions
Have a question about your own MRI? Send it on WhatsApp and the clinic will guide you.
Is vertebroplasty safe for elderly patients?
Yes. It is done through a needle, often under local anaesthesia with sedation, which suits elderly patients with other health problems.
How quickly does the pain go?
Many patients feel clear relief within hours of the procedure and can walk the same day.
What is the difference between vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty?
Both use bone cement. Kyphoplasty first uses a balloon to restore some height of the broken bone. Dr. Nitish advises which one suits your fracture.
Will it stop other fractures?
It treats the broken bone. Osteoporosis treatment, calcium, vitamin D and exercise are also needed to protect the other bones.
Your surgeon
Dr. Nitish Agarwal, Consultant Spine Surgeon
MBBS, Orthopaedics, Fellowship in Spine Surgery · MMC Reg. No. 2013103163 · 15+ years, 5000+ spine surgeries
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