KYPHOPLASTY

Kyphoplasty together with Vertebroplasty are procedures that treat painful vertebral compression fractures in the spine. These vertebral compression fractures are a common result of osteoporosis, but they can be caused by primary bone tumors or metastatic disease.  

Kyphoplasty is a procedure that stabilizes the fracture, helping to restore the height of the collapsed vertebral fracture and reduce pain. It improves the kyphosis (hunchback) as most of vertebral compression fractures happen in the thoracolumbar region. As well, this procedure improves pulmonary function in COPD patients. 

WHAT TO EXPECT DURING KYPHOPLASTY TREATMENT

The procedure is done with local anesthesia. Under fluoroscopy, a cannula will slowly enter the vertebral body and under multiple views it will be further advanced into the center of the vertebral body where the fracture is localized. Once optimal placement achieved a balloon apparatus is inflated to build cavity within the vertebral body. This cavity is made from the cement that will eventually be injected. The inflated balloon helps to restore the height in the compressed vertebral body and improves alignment of the spine. 

After this the cement is injected very carefully into the cavity making sure that there is no extravasation outside the bone. 

WHAT TO EXPECT AFTER KYPHOPLASTY TREATMENT

Pain relief is mostly immediate for the patients, but some report pain elimination within two days. Improvement in the posture is often noticed. 

After the surgery the patient can go home and return to daily activities, but they must avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities at least six weeks.