What is Kyphoplasty?

What is Kyphoplasty Surgery?

Kyphoplasty is minimally invasive spine surgery to treat symptomatic compression fractures that do not respond to nonsurgical treatments options. Kyphoplasty is performed using a small incision—less surgical trauma occurs and recovery time is shortened. The steps used to perform the procedure are:

• Incisions. Two half-inch incisions are made on the sides of the fractured vertebra.
• Exposure. A surgical cannula and trocar are guided under x-ray into the fracture site.
• Balloon inflation. A tiny balloon is guided into the fracture site and inflated to restore lost vertebral height.
• Fracture stabilization. Biological bone cement is injected into the fracture site and quickly hardens.

The fractured vertebra no longer causes pain after the procedure. Patient satisfaction for kyphoplasty is every high—results are significant and sustained. Our board-certified and fellowship-trained spine specialists perform minimally invasive kyphoplasty procedures using proven surgical techniques and equipment.

What Condition Does Kyphoplasty Treat?

Compression fractures are tiny cracks in a vertebra. Osteoporosis is the most common cause of compression fractures. Injuries and impaired bone healing are other possible causes. Compression fracture symptoms include:

• Spine pain
• Extremity pain, weakness, numbness
• Height loss

The most common nonsurgical compression fracture treatment options are rest, activity modification, medications, and bracing. Kyphoplasty may be recommended when nonsurgical treatment options do not provide symptom relief.

The first step toward compression fracture symptom relief is receiving a diagnosis. Please contact us to make an appointment as soon as possible.