Secondary cancers often form in the vertebrae (possible origins: kidney, lung, prostate, breast) due to their high vascularity. The metastases then colonise the vertebral bone tissue, weakening it and making it more susceptible to minor fractures. Neurological problems can also occur as a result of pressure from the metastases in the spinal canal or on the nerves. The pain is very severe.

Treatment is surgical. There are several options:

• Excision of the tumour, if it is a primary tumour,
• Embolisation of the tumour to destroy the blood vessels that feed it,
• Injection of cement (cementoplasty) into the vertebral body to strengthen the bone.
• Arthrodesis surgery to stabilise the spine.

Relief is usually seen within 24 to 48 hours after cementoplasty