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Vertebroplasty Kyphoplasty treatment option
Kyphoplasty is a treatment for vertebra, or spinal bone, fractures. This procedure is often used for patients with osteoporosis, a weakening of the bones that typically occurs in people as they age. Spinal fractures are painful and can severely limit movement, drastically diminishing the quality of life. They are more difficult to treat than other bone fractures because surgery can be riskier.
If spinal fractures aren't treated, they typically heal in a compressed or flattened shape. Once this occurs, the fracture can't be treated effectively. People with consistent spinal pain for three months should see their physician.
Treatment
Kyphoplasty is used to try and restore the height and reduce the pain of a fractured vertebra. This procedure begins with Holy Name Medical Center's Interventional Radiologists using imaging guidance to insert a small balloon through a tube into the area where the vertebra has collapsed. The balloon is inflated, which then elevates the fracture into a more normal position. The balloon is removed and medical-grade cement is then inserted into the void. It hardens quickly and stabilizes the bone.
Patients having kyphoplasty are put under local or general anesthesia. It typically takes about an hour for each vertebra being treated. Patients often go home the same day as the procedure but may spend one night in the hospital.
Benefits
- Reduces or eliminates pain from a spinal fracture
- Restores vertebral height
- Low complication rate
