This article is to review the different types of vertebral augmentation implants recently becoming available for the treatment of benign and malignant spinal compression fractures. After a detailed description of the augmentation implants, we review the available clinical data. We will conclude with a summary of the advantages and disadvantages of vertebral implants and how they can affect the future treatment options of compression fractures. Keywords Vertebroplasty . Kyphoplasty . Compression fractures . Implants Abbreviations BKP Balloon kyphoplasty VB Vertebral body VP Vertebroplasty VAS Visual analog score ODS Ostwestery disability score VBS Vertebral body stent The treatment of vertebral compression fractures is commonly performed using vertebroplasty or kyphoplasty techniques. Many variations of both techniques exist including different types of needles, balloons, and channel creating devices as well as different types of cements. Regardless of the technique used, excellent pain relief and a very low complication rate have been reported. Background and biomechanicsMore specifically, multiple new devices have been recently introduced for vertebral augmentation, the so-called third Key Points 1. Describe different types of vertebral implants available for treatment of spinal compression fractures 2. Outline published clinical data for each implant 3. Summarize the pros and cons of this new technique, the so called third generation vertebroplasty 4. Outline future role in treatment of traumatic and malignant lesions * Bassem A. Georgy