Kyphoplasty Specialist

What is kyphoplasty?

Kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that treats vertebral fractures. Vertebrae are the bones that make up your spine. You may develop a vertebral fracture from an injury or if you have osteoporosis, a bone condition that causes your bones to be weak and susceptible to fractures

Am I a good candidate for kyphoplasty?

The team at International Spine Pain & Performance Center determines if you’re a good candidate for kyphoplasty after an examination and review of your medical history and symptoms. Kyphoplasty isn’t usually recommended until after you’ve completed more conservative treatments, such as immobilization, rest, and pain medication, and failed to get relief from your back pain.

You may also be considered a candidate for kyphoplasty if:

• Your spine appears unstable
• Your vertebrae are putting pressure on your spinal cord

The ISPP Center team may also recommend kyphoplasty if your spinal fracture is due to metastatic cancer, myeloma, or a benign tumor.

How is kyphoplasty performed?

Kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive procedure, which means very few incisions are needed to perform the surgery. However, due to the nature of the procedure, anesthesia is needed to keep you comfortable.

During the procedure, your specialist inserts a needle through your skin and muscle until it reaches the affected bone, and then a balloon is inflated, which helps restore the normal shape of your vertebrae. To secure the balloon, a special cement is then injected into the balloon and the needle is withdrawn.

Depending on the number of broken vertebrae, the entire procedure may take about an hour. Afterward, you’re taken to a recovery room for observation and you should be able to get up and walk within an hour following the procedure. You may notice a significant reduction in your pain within a few days.

Your specialist at International Spine Pain & Performance Center might recommend avoiding certain activities following your kyphoplasty while your bones heal. Physical therapy may also be recommended to restore strength and function, as well as supplements to support bone healing.

For a consultation to see if kyphoplasty is right for you, call International Spine Pain & Performance Center or schedule an appointment online today.