What is Balloon Kyphoplasty?

What is Balloon Kyphoplasty?

Kyphoplasty is most commonly used to treat patients who have compression fractures of the spine.This problem is commonly seen in the patient population suffering from Osteoporosis The procedure involves injecting specially designed cement into the damaged vertebrae. This helps to hold the vertebrae together and prevent further damage. 

Kyphoplasties are performed on an outpatient basis, and patients typically return home the same day as the procedure.

The goal of kyphoplasty is to restore the height and strength of your vertebrae so that you can resume normal activities without pain or discomfort.

Kyphoplasty may be a good option for people with

  • Acute compression fractures
  • Traumatic burst fractures
  • Vertebral body collapse 

Balloon kyphoplasty can be used as a treatment for people with compression fractures caused by osteoporosis or trauma/fall. It is generally used for compression fractures that aren’t responding to other conservative  treatments 

The Kyphoplasty procedure

A kyphoplasty procedure is always done by a trained and experienced physician.

The procedure is typically performed in an outpatient center or surgery center, under monitored anesthesia care. A small balloon is inserted into the vertebral body through a needle hole in the skin overlying the collapsed vertebra. The balloon is then inflated in order to create space for a cement material to be injected into the vertebral body. The injected cement material helps restore height and strength to the affected vertebrae, which helps relieve pressure on spinal nerves.

How long does it take to recover from a Kyphoplasty?

The recovery period for KYPHOPLASTY is normally about a week, but it can take longer for your body to heal fully.

The length of the recovery period is different for each person, but most people can return to work and other activities within two to three weeks.

It’s important that you avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activity until your doctor gives you the OK to do so. This will help prevent any complications such as bleeding or infection.

Schedule an appointment with our board-certified physicians at the Center for Spine and Pain Medicine if you’re considering Kyphoplasty procedure or have any questions.