What is a Kyphoplasty?
A compression fracture of the spine can cause sudden, debilitating pain. Kyphoplasty is an outpatient, minimally invasive procedure used to treat spinal compression fractures and restore the spine’s natural shape. This can occur from osteoporosis, trauma, vehicle accidents, cancer, and more.
Causes for a Kyphoplasty
People with bones weakened by osteoporosis or multiple myeloma (cancer of bone marrow) are especially at risk for compression fractures. Activities, such as lifting heavy objects, sneezing, or coughing can even cause fractures. Vertebral compression fractures can lead to:
People with bones weakened by osteoporosis or multiple myeloma (cancer of bone marrow) are especially at risk for compression fractures. Activities, such as lifting heavy objects, sneezing, or coughing can even cause fractures. Vertebral compression fractures can lead to:
- Back pain
- Reduced physical activity.
- Depression
- Loss of independence
- Decreased lung capacity.
- Difficulty sleeping
Vertebroplasty or kyphoplasty may be a treatment option if you have pain vertebral compression fractures from:
- Osteoporosis
- Metastatic tumor
- Multiple myeloma
- Vertebral hemangioma
You may NOT be a candidate if you have:
- Non-painful, stable compression fractures
- Bone infection
- Bleeding disorders
- Allergy to medications used during the procedure.
- Fracture fragment or tumor in the spinal cord.
What to Expect During a Kyphoplasty
Before your kyphoplasty, your provider will meet with you to discuss your medical history and perform an overall physical exam. You may also have some tests, such as X-ray, MRI and blood tests done to prepare. Talk with your provider about any medicines or supplements you are taking as it can cause interactions. You may be told not to eat or drink anything for several hours before the surgery. Your provider will explain your pre-procedure plan with you.
Prior to your kyphoplasty, medicine will be delivered through an IV to relax you, relieve your pain or put you to sleep. With X-ray guidance, your provider will insert a needle through your back into the bone, then inflate a balloon to help the vertebra regain its normal shape. Then, cement will be injected into the fractured vertebrae. The needle will then be removed with no stitches needed.
Following your procedure, it is normal to feel slightly sore or tender, but should subside quickly. At home, patients can return to their normal daily activities, but should avoid heavy lifting for at least six weeks. Your provider may prescribe bone-strengthening medications to ensure bone health and reduce complications.
Your doctor will schedule follow-up appointments to ensure that the procedure was successful. They will provide instructions for physical therapy and returning to daily activity. If you notice unusual pain, contact your provider right away.
Risk Factors of a Kyphoplasty
As with any procedure, there are risks associated with a kyphoplasty, including:
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Increased back pain
- Tingling, numbness, or weakness because of nerve damage.
- Cement leaking out of position and compressing vital structures, such as the spinal cord.