Kyphoplasty: A minimally invasive procedure for vertebral compression fracture
Kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive procedure used for treatment of vertebral compression fracture- small breaks in the bones of the spine- that can cause severe back pain, loss of height and spinal deformity. This procedure is designed to stabilize the fractured bones, restore height significantly reduce pain and improve quality of life
What are Vertebral Compression Fractures?
Vertebral compression fractures are most commonly caused by traumatic injuries that include car accidents, contact sports, and falls. Individuals may also have an increased risk for fractures due osteoporosis, which is a common condition that leads to a weakening of bones due to aging and medical conditions.
Treatment Options for Vertebral Compression Fractures
A Kyphoplasty procedure is an outpatient procedure performed in the office under local anesthesia and sedation. The duration of the procedure is approximately one hour. The patient will receive an IV for pre procedure antibiotic, to reduce risk of infection, and pre procedure sedation and pain medication.
What is involved in a Kyphoplasty Procedure?
The patient is lying face down at the start of the procedure. Using X-ray guidance the physician will insert a small needle into the fractured bone through a tiny incision. Once within the vertebrae a small balloon is inserted and inflated inside of the vertebra. This balloon creates space within the bone for the cement to be placed and also helps to restore bone height. The balloon is then removed and bone cement is injected. The cement hardens within minutes of being injected, stabilizing the fracture and preventing further collapse. The needle is then removed and a bandage is placed over the tiny incision without the need for stitches. The recovery from the procedure is relatively quick and patients will return home the same day. Pain relief is typically felt within hours with most patients reporting significant improvement within 24-48 hours. Patients should avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activity for 2 weeks following the procedure. Follow up is typically 10-14 days following the procedure and at that point, can resume normal activities
Benefits of Kyphoplasty
There are many benefits to a Kyphoplasty, including pain relief, typically within hours of the procedure, increased mobility due to the stabilization of the fracture, and restoration of vertebral height, which prevents spinal deformities and improves posture.
Kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive procedure that offers a promising solution for patients suffering from spinal compression fracture. The procedure can help alleviate pain, restore mobility, and improve quality of life. If you suspect you might be a candidate for a minimally invasive Kyphoplasty, it is important to discuss your options with a board-certified physical medicine and rehabilitation physician and determine the best course of action for your specific situation.
For a comprehensive evaluation and to explore your treatment options, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment or seek a second opinion consultation with Dr. Anthony Giuffrida at Cantor Spine Center at the Paley Orthopedic & Spine Center by calling 561-446-0645. Dr. Giuffrida treats patients at our Fort Lauderdale Clinic. Take the first step towards a pain-free life by calling us today.