Kyphoplasty

What is Kyphoplasty?

Kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive spinal procedure used to treat vertebral compression fractures (VCFs), often caused by osteoporosis, trauma, or tumors. The main goals are to relieve pain, restore vertebral height, and stabilize the fractured bone.

What are the benefits of a Kyphoplasty?

When patients suffer a vertebra fracture, the bone’s standard shape becomes compressed, and it can lead to the collapse of one or more vertebrae in the spine. This compression is severely painful and often the result in loss of mobility and function.

Common Indications:
– Painful vertebral compression fractures unresponsive to conservative treatment (rest, bracing, medication)
– Osteoporotic fractures
– Vertebral fractures due to metastatic cancer or multiple myeloma
– Fractures from trauma in select cases

How does a Kyphoplasty work?

After making a small incision in the back (smaller than the size of a baby aspirin), and with the aid of fluoroscopy, we will insert a specialized medical instrument known as a port along your back to reach the fractured bone. Then a balloon-like device is inserted into the area to create space in order to apply a special cement mixture. This treatment reduces pain at the fracture site, improves the vertebra (bone) height, and improves mobility.

How to prepare for a Kyphoplasty?

The first step to determine your eligibility to receive a kyphoplasty is to perform a thorough physical examination and carefully consider your medical and family history.

-Blood thinners (e.g., aspirin, Plavix, Eliquis, warfarin):
You will need to stop them before the procedure to reduce bleeding risk. Only do this under medical supervision.
– Medical Clearance (if needed)
If you have heart conditions, bleeding disorders, or infections, your provider may require clearance from your primary doctor or specialist.

What to expect after the procedure?

Kyphoplasty is usually performed in under 30 minutes per level treated with the patient’s ability to go home the same day after a short recovery period.

Following the procedure, there may be some discomfort and stiffness at the site, which typically improves with rest and ice. We recommend our patients go home and relax, however activity as tolerated will not undo the procedure. The recovery period is minimal, and you can resume all normal activities the following day. Most patients notice an improvement in bone fracture pain immediately.