A procedure used to stabilise painful spinal compression fractures
Dr Colum Nolan
Senior Consultant Spine & Neurosurgeon
MB, BCh, BAO, LRCPSI, MRCSI, FRCSI (Neurosurgery)
Vertebroplasty is a medical procedure used to help manage pain from spinal compression fractures, most commonly related to osteoporosis. These fractures occur when weakened bones in the spine collapse, often after minimal injury or even routine daily activities.
Vertebroplasty may be considered for selected patients when pain remains significant despite appropriate non-surgical management.
Osteoporosis reduces bone strength and increases the risk of fractures. In the spine, this can lead to compression fractures where a vertebra collapses or loses height.
Symptoms may include:
Not all spinal compression fractures require procedural treatment, and many improve with time and conservative care.
Vertebroplasty is performed using a targeted approach to stabilise the fractured vertebra.
During the procedure:
The procedure focuses on stabilisation and pain control. It does not restore lost bone height or treat the underlying cause of osteoporosis.
Recovery following vertebroplasty is generally straightforward.
In general:
Ongoing management of bone health remains an important part of care.
Vertebroplasty at Oxford Spine and Neurosurgery Centre is offered as part of comprehensive spine and bone health care. Decisions are guided by symptom severity, imaging findings, and overall health considerations.
Care is led by Dr Colum Nolan, Senior Consultant Neurosurgeon with more than 20 years of clinical experience, with emphasis on appropriate patient selection and clear explanation of treatment options.
Vertebroplasty is a procedure used to stabilise painful spinal compression fractures related to osteoporosis. It may help reduce pain and support mobility in selected patients when conservative treatment is insufficient, forming part of a broader approach to spine and bone health.
Medical Disclaimer
This page is intended for general educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Information provided is not a substitute for professional medical consultation, diagnosis, or treatment. Suitability for vertebroplasty must be determined by a qualified medical practitioner following appropriate clinical assessment.
Dr Colum Nolan is a Senior Consultant Neurosurgeon with over 20 years of experience, specialising in minimally invasive spine (keyhole) surgery and other spine procedures.
A graduate of the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dr Nolan underwent neurosurgical training in Ireland and Australia, followed by a fellowship in complex spine surgery at Addenbrooke’s Hospital, Cambridge, as well as rotations at the Orthopaedic Spine Unit in Norfolk and Norwich Hospital.
Dr Colum is committed to delivering compassionate, patient-centred care, combining surgical precision with a genuine dedication to improving his patients’ quality of life.
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