Kyphoplasty: Treatment for Spinal Fractures or Collapse Caused by Osteoporosis

Kyphoplasty Procedure
 
A balloon tamp is inserted into the fractured spinal bone.
 
The balloon tamp is inflated to create a cavity in the spinal bone.
 
The cavity created by the balloon is filled with bone cement.
 
The bone cement forms an internal cast to maintain the correction.
 

Kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive, innovative treatment for spinal fractures caused by osteoporosis or cancer. Kyphoplasty is a combination of vertebroplasty with balloon catheter technology. The procedure restores height to the collapsed spinal bone, reduces deformity to the spine and diminishes or even eliminates severe back pain.

In a kyphoplasty procedure, interventional radiologists and spine surgeons insert an inflatable balloon tamp (IBT). An IBT is a small device with an inflatable end. The physicians insert the IBT and inflate it to separate the vertebra and return the spinal bone back to its normal height. The cavity created by the balloon is filled with bone cement to maintain the correction. Once completed, patients usually return home the same day.  

Results at hospitals nationwide have shown kyphoplasty to be safe and effective in treating painful, progressive spinal fractures or collapse. Following the procedure, most patients return to their daily activities without needing any form of physical therapy or rehabilitation. Since the cement hardens within minutes, there is no need for a period of rehabilitation.

If patients have more spinal fractures or collapse in other areas, kyphoplasty can be utilized to repair those areas, as well.

Kyphoplasty is not appropriate for all patients. Your orthopedic surgeon will determine if your condition is appropriate for this advanced technique.

As with any medical procedure, kyphoplasty involves a small degree of risk. However, in general, kyphoplasty is an extremely safe and effective treatment for those suffering from back pain due to spinal fractures or collapse. Most patients experience an improved quality of life following the procedure.

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To learn more about orthopedics at Sharp or to find a Sharp-affiliated doctor, search for San Diego orthopedic surgeons or call 1-800-82-SHARP (1-800-827-4277), Monday through Friday, from 8 am to 6 pm.

For More Orthopedics Information
To find general information about orthopedics, visit Orthopedic Surgery in Adult Health or read the Orthopedics News archive.