Surgeons may perform a vertebral body replacement from either the side or the back of the spine. During the procedure, he/she removes and replaces a damaged vertebra and stabilizes the spine. The procedure can remove pressure on the spinal cord and nerves that has resulted either from injury (trauma) in which a vertebra is severely fractured, or from a tumor that has spread to the front of the spine and fractured a vertebra.
1. Incision
An incision is made along the midline of the back at the affected levels of the spine. After the spine is exposed, surgical instruments are used to remove the spinous process, lamina, and any bone spurs that may be intruding into the spinal canal. With these bones removed, the spinal nerves have more space, and the pressure on them can be reduced or removed.
An incision is made the mid-to lower back
2. Excision
Surgical instruments are used to remove the tumor, the surrounding diseased bone, and adjacent discs. Removing these structures can reduce the pressure on the spinal cord and nerves.
Surgeon removes the affected vertebral body and discs
3. Replacement
Your surgeon can use either a piece of donor bone or a metal or plastic cage filled with natural bone material. The implant is positioned to replace the vertebral body and discs that have been removed. It will act as primary support for the spine as new bone grows (fuses) in the space between the adjacent vertebral bodies. If successful, fusion will typically take place in the weeks and months following surgery.
Metal or plastic cage filled with natural bone material to replace the vertebral body and discs that have been removed
4. Stabilization
After the piece of donor bone or cage is in place, your surgeon will further stabilize the spine by placing fixation devices such as plates, rods, and screws. This fixation is intended to provide additional support and stability.
Plates, rods and screws have been implanted to provide further stabilization
5. Surgical Closure
Your surgeon will close the incision and dress it with a wound covering at the conclusion of the surgery. As with any surgery, spinal surgery carries certain risks. Your surgeon will explain all the possible complications of the surgery, as well as side effects.
