What is Kyphoplasty?
Kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive spine procedure used to treat vertebral compression fractures, which commonly occur due to osteoporosis, injury, or cancer. It helps reduce back pain, restore spinal height, and improve mobility.
In this procedure, a small balloon is inserted into the fractured vertebra and gently inflated to create space and restore its height. The space is then filled with bone cement, which stabilizes the bone and prevents further collapse.
Kyphoplasty is considered safer than traditional open spine surgery because it involves small incisions, less pain, and faster recovery. Many patients experience quick relief from pain and can return to daily activities sooner.
Purpose & Benefits of Kyphoplasty
Kyphoplasty is performed to treat painful spinal fractures and improve quality of life.
Key Benefits
• Relieves back pain quickly:
Many patients feel significant pain relief soon after the procedure.
• Restores vertebral height:
The balloon helps correct spinal deformity and improves posture.
• Improves mobility:
Patients can move more easily and return to normal activities faster.
• Minimally invasive:
Small incisions mean less pain, fewer complications, and faster healing.
• Stabilizes fractures:
Bone cement strengthens the vertebra and prevents further collapse.
Who May Benefit from Kyphoplasty?
Kyphoplasty may be recommended for people who have:
• Osteoporosis-related spinal fractures
• Severe back pain due to vertebral collapse
• Fractures caused by injury or trauma
• Spinal fractures due to cancer
• Pain not improving with medicines or rest
Doctors evaluate the patient using imaging tests like X-rays or MRI before recommending this procedure.
Kyphoplasty Procedure
1. Pre-Procedure Preparation
Doctors perform imaging tests such as X-rays or MRI scans to identify the fracture and plan the treatment.
2. Anesthesia
Kyphoplasty is usually performed under local or general anesthesia, so the patient does not feel pain during the procedure.
3. Balloon Insertion
A small incision is made, and a thin tube is inserted into the fractured vertebra. A balloon is then placed and gently inflated to create space and restore the bone height.
4. Cement Injection
After removing the balloon, bone cement is injected into the space to stabilize the vertebra and prevent further collapse.
5. Closure
The incision is closed with a bandage, and the patient is monitored for recovery.
Duration & Therapy Setting
Kyphoplasty usually takes about 60–90 minutes per vertebra depending on the condition being treated.
It is often performed as a day-care or outpatient procedure, meaning patients can go home the same day or after a short hospital stay.
The procedure is done in a hospital or specialized spine center by an orthopedic surgeon, neurosurgeon, or spine specialist.
Safety, Precautions & Risks
Kyphoplasty is generally safe, but like any procedure, it carries some risks.
Common Side Effects
• Mild pain or soreness at the procedure site
• Temporary discomfort after surgery
Possible Risks
• Infection or bleeding
• Cement leakage
• Nerve injury or paralysis (rare)
• Fractures in nearby vertebrae
Although complications are uncommon, patients should follow medical advice carefully to ensure proper recovery.
Recovery After Kyphoplasty
Recovery after kyphoplasty is usually quick compared to major spine surgery.
Recovery Guidelines
• Many patients can walk within hours after the procedure
• Light activities can resume within a day or two
• Full recovery usually takes 4–6 weeks
• Avoid heavy lifting during recovery
Most patients experience improved mobility and reduced pain shortly after treatment.
Orthopedic Spine Surgeons
Neurosurgery
Orthopedic Surgeons
Orthopedics