Kyphoplasty

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Kyphoplasty is a procedure used to correct kyphosis of the spine caused by compression fractures due to osteoporosis. Osteoporosis can weaken bones, including the vertebrae. If osteoporosis results in compression fractures, it deforms the vertebrae. Kyphoplasty is a procedure (similar to vertebroplasty) in which bone cement is used to strengthen the fractured vertebrae and, in some cases, to restore it to a more normal height and shape.

Who should consider kyphoplasty?

Kyphoplasty may be of benefit in helping to relieve pain and to restore the height and angle of the affected vertebrae in certain patients with osteoporosis. Not all patients with osteoporosis are appropriate candidates for kyphoplasty. Kyphoplasty is most effective when it can be performed on recent compression fractures.

The Procedure

Kyphoplasty is often performed as a minimally invasive procedure, that is, only a small incision is needed. Typically, a special instrument with a deflated balloon is inserted into the fractured vertebra. The balloon is carefully inflated to create an empty space within the fracture. Once the space is created, the balloon is gently removed. Medical grade bone cement is then injected into the void to strengthen the vertebra and possibly help to reshape it. The medical cement hardens quickly and stabilizes the vertebra 

Kyphoplasty is sometimes performed under local anesthesia (that is, the patient is awake) but may also be performed under general anesthesia (the patient is “asleep”). The patient lies face down on the operating table. Cushions help position the patient properly and to provide comfort. The surgical site is scrubbed with special germ-killing solution. The C-arm of the fluoroscope (an imaging machine) is positioned over the patient. The fluoroscope displays spinal images on monitors in the operating room. Under fluoroscopic guidance, the physician inserst the balloon instrument into the vertebra and gently inflates the balloon to create an empty space (void). The balloon is deflated, removed and bone cement is injected into the void.

What to Expect from Kyphoplasty

Kyphoplasty may be performed as day surgery, but in some cases, a short hospital stay is required. In some cases, kyphoplasty may be performed on more than one vertebra.

Recovery from Kyphoplasty

After surgery, the patient is brought into the recovery area and monitored. If the patient underwent general anesthesia, he or she will be closely observed as anesthesia wears off. A short hospital stay may be required.  Patients are discharged home with written "at home care" instructions. Some patients report immediate pain relief following kyphoplasty. Patients should avoid strenuous exertion for about six weeks.   Some patients receive specific or additional instructions from the physician or medical staff.

Risks and Benefits of Kyphoplasty

Prior to kyphoplasty, the physician details the surgical risks.  Possible risks associated with kyphoplasty include bleeding, infection, nerve damage, or allergic reaction. The benefits of kyphoplasty include pain relief, and restoration of vertebral height and shape. Please be aware that kyphoplasty cannot correct a long-standing spinal deformity.

Conclusion

Kyphoplasty and vertebroplasty is similar; both procedures help stabilize vertebral compression fractures caused by osteoporosis.  The difference between the two procedures is kyphoplasty utilizes a balloon device to create a void into which bone cement is injected.  Some patients report immediate pain relief after kyphoplasty. However, kyphoplasty may not be an ideal treatment choice for some osteoporotic patients.

To download our Patient Guide to Kyphoplasty, click here.