Kyphoplasty

Kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to treat chronic spine pain typically caused by vertebral compression fractures (VCFs). VCF’s are often caused by osteoporosis, trauma, or cancer. The primary goals of kyphoplasty are to relieve pain, stabilize the fracture, and restore the height of the vertebra. Here’s an overview of the procedure and its applications:

Kyphoplasty Procedure

Preparation:

• Imaging: Preoperative imaging (e.g., X-rays, MRI, or CT scans) is performed to identify the exact location and extent of the vertebral fracture.
• Anesthesia: The procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia.

Execution:

• Insertion: A small incision is made in the back, and a narrow tube (trocar) is inserted through the skin into the fractured vertebra under fluoroscopic guidance (live X-ray).
• Balloon Inflation: A special balloon is inserted through the trocar into the fractured vertebra. The balloon is then carefully inflated to create a cavity and restore the height of the compressed vertebra.
• Cavity Creation: The balloon is deflated and removed, leaving behind a cavity within the vertebra.
• Cement Injection: Medical-grade bone cement (polymethylmethacrylate, or PMMA) is injected into the cavity created by the balloon. The cement hardens quickly, stabilizing the fracture and supporting the vertebra.

Closure:

• Final Steps: The instruments are removed, and the small incision is closed with a suture or adhesive bandage. The entire procedure typically takes about one hour per vertebra.

Kyphoplasty Indications

Kyphoplasty is indicated for patients with:

• Osteoporotic Vertebral Compression Fractures: Caused by weakened bones due to osteoporosis.
• Traumatic Vertebral Fractures: Resulting from accidents or injuries.
• Pathologic Vertebral Fractures: Due to cancer or other diseases that weaken the bones.

Kyphoplasty Benefits

• Pain Relief: Most patients experience significant pain relief shortly after the procedure.
• Vertebral Height Restoration: Helps restore the height of the collapsed vertebra, which can improve posture and reduce spinal deformity.
• Stabilization: Stabilizes the fractured vertebra, preventing further collapse and reducing the risk of additional fractures.
• Quick Recovery: Minimally invasive nature allows for a shorter recovery time compared to traditional open surgery.

Kyphoplasty Risks and Complications

• Cement Leakage: Leakage of bone cement outside the vertebral body, which can cause complications such as nerve compression or embolism.
• Infection: Risk of infection at the injection site.
• Bleeding: Potential for bleeding during or after the procedure.
• Adjacent Fractures: Increased risk of fractures in adjacent vertebrae due to changes in spinal mechanics.

Recovery From Kyphoplasty

• Post-Procedure: Patients are usually monitored for a few hours after the procedure and can often go home the same day.
• Activity: Light activities can typically be resumed within a day or two, while strenuous activities should be avoided for several weeks.
• Follow-Up: Regular follow-up visits to monitor the healing process and assess the outcome of the procedure.

Accepting New Patients

kyphoplasty is an effective and minimally invasive option for treating vertebral compression fractures, offering rapid pain relief, vertebral stabilization, and height restoration. It is particularly beneficial for patients with osteoporosis-related fractures but is also used for fractures due to trauma or cancer.

Pain Treatment Institute is committed to offering the latest kyphoplasty treatments to remove or relieve acute and chronic pain. Our pain management clinics are accepting new patients. Contact our office to schedule an appointment.