Kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive procedure that is used to treat fractures of the spine, also known as vertebral compression fractures (VCF). A compression fracture is most often due to a fall or osteoporosis. These fractures can cause severe pain, limit movement, and result in excessive hunching. Kyphoplasty can eliminate or reduce pain and stabilize the vertebra. Most patients find improvement in their mobility and quality of life after a successful Kyphoplasty procedure.
The Kyphoplasty procedure is painless. A sedative or anesthesia will be given. In addition, antibiotics will be given to prevent infection. The area over the back will be sterilized and numbed. A small skin nick is made over the area of the fracture. Under X-ray guidance, a thin tube is inserted to the exact vertebra. A small balloon is inflated through the tube to create a cavity inside the damaged vertebra. The balloon is removed, and a special orthopedic cement is used to fill the space and stabilize the vertebra. The thin tube is then removed, and a dressing is placed on the skin. No stitches or sutures are needed.
After a Kyphoplasty procedure, you will be on bedrest for two hours. From start to finish, the whole procedure is relatively quick, and you usually can go home the same day. Many patients feel relief from their pain within several days, and some immediately.
Read more about how Kyphoplasty can help you get pain relief and back to your normal life.