Vertebral Body Augmentation (VBA) includes all minimally invasive procedures such as vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty used to strengthen or stabilize a spinal fracture caused by osteoporosis or cancer. It is designed to relieve back pain caused by compression fractures and to prevent further collapse of the vertebral body.
The procedure involves injecting bone cement, usually after the insertion and inflation of a small balloon, into the affected vertebral body. In the majority of patients the pain is relieved immediately or within a few days. The procedure takes less than an hour and is performed as an outpatient procedure using local anesthetic and mild sedation if needed.
Preparing for your vertebral body augmentation (VBA):
- A representative will contact you prior to your appointment to review your medications and complete registration.
- Be sure to let your doctor know if you are taking blood thinners (Aspirin, Lovenox, Plavix, Heparin, or Coumadin). You MAY be asked to stop taking this medication 5 days prior to your procedure. You may resume this medication the day after your procedure.
- You will need to arrange for a driver to take you home.
- Do not eat for at least 4 hours prior to the procedure.
- If you have an allergy to contrast dye, local anesthetic or steroid medications please notify our representative, scheduler, or nurse as soon as possible.
- An IV is started before the procedure for pre-procedural antibiotics and for sedation if needed during the procedure.
- After the procedure you may go home as soon as the cement hardens (about 1 hour). Patients may feel sore at the injection site for 1-2 days. Tylenol or anti-inflammatory medications can relieve discomfort. Cold ice packs 3-4 times daily for several days is also effective. You may take your own pain medication as needed if it is already prescribed by your referring physician.
- Limited activity is recommended the first 24 hours. Regular activity with osteoporosis precautions can be resumed the next day as tolerated.
If you develop fever or severe pain contact our office at 352-333-7847 (7VIP) or call your referring physician. After hours or on weekends, go to the nearest emergency room or call North Florida Regional Medical Center at 352-333-4000 and ask for the Radiologist on call.
