Kyphoplasty
What is kyphoplasty?
Kyphoplasty is a procedure used to treat compression fractures in the spine.
During the procedure, a balloon is inserted into the spine and inflated to help restore the height of the vertebrae before special cement is injected into the fracture to stabilize the spine, restoring mobility and relieving back pain.
X-rays are used during kyphoplasty to help the surgeon position the balloon, needle, and cement to promote optimal healing and recovery.
Kyphoplasty is a type of procedure known as vertebral augmentation. These procedures are used to treat compression fractures in the spine that usually occur as a result of osteoporosis, or on occasion as a result of cancer involving the spine.
What is kyphoplasty used for?
Unlike a similar procedure known as vertebroplasty, kyphoplasty is better suited to treated fractures that are causing kyphosis—an abnormal forward curvature of the spine.
Vertebral augmentation procedures like kyphoplasty can be used in the first weeks or months after the fracture occurred to stabilize the broken bone.
Fractures that have already healed on their own are not suitable for treatment with kyphoplasty.
Am I a good candidate for kyphoplasty?
You may be a good candidate for kyphoplasty if you have a fractured vertebra that is causing severe pain, immobility, or more serious complications.
Kyphoplasty is an outpatient procedure (meaning an overnight hospital stay is not required). Either local or general anesthesia is used to keep you comfortable during the procedure.
Request an Appointment with a Kyphoplasty Specialist
Call (888) 719-9157