What is kyphoplasty?
Kyphoplasty is a technique for treating vertebral compression fractures, small breaks in the thick mass of bone that makes up the front part of the vertebra, called the vertebral body. Vertebral body fractures lead to the collapse, or compression, of a vertebra, causing the spine to shorten and curve forward. This can result in pain and a hunched-over appearance. Thinning of bones, or osteoporosis, is the main cause of vertebral compression fractures.
During the kyphoplasty procedure, the patient will lie on his or her stomach. The doctor will then insert a hollow needle, called a trocar, through the skin and into the vertebra. A type of X-ray, called fluoroscopy, is used to guide the trocar into position.
Once the trocar is in place, an inflatable balloon-like device is inserted into the vertebra through the trocar. As the balloon is inflated, it opens up a space to be filled with the bone cement.
In addition to stabilizing the vertebra and relieving pain, kyphoplasty restores the height of the vertebra, thereby straightening out the spinal curve.
Who is a candidate for these procedures?
Kyphoplasty is generally reserved for people with painful progressive back pain secondary to osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures. Candidates for this procedure often experience significant decreases in mobility and function as a result of the fractures. To be a candidate for a kyphoplasty, a person's pain must be related to a vertebral fracture and not due to other problems, such as disk herniation and severe arthritis. Imaging tests - such as spinal X-rays, bone scans, and computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans - might be ordered to confirm the presence of a vertebral fracture.
How do I prepare for a kyphoplasty?
Your doctor will give you specific instructions about taking your regular medicines before the procedure. You will be asked to not eat for at least six hours before the procedure. Tell your doctor if you are allergic to iodine or have ever had an allergic reaction to X-ray contrast material. You will need to have someone drive you home after the procedure.
What type of anesthesia is used during a kyphoplasty?
Kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive procedure that may be performed using local or general anesthesia, depending on the doctor and the needs of the patient. In most cases, this procedure is performed as an overnight stay although many patients do go home the same afternoon.
Is kyphoplasty painful?
You might feel sore in the area where the trocar was inserted. However, this should go away in two to three days. Applying ice to the area can help relieve any soreness.
How effective is kyphoplasty?
Kyphoplasty usually provides pain relief and improved mobility within 48 hours of the procedure. In some cases, however, patients feel pain relief immediately. More than 95 percent of patients are satisfied with the results with many returning to all their usual activities they were performing before the vertebral fracture occurred. Two-thirds of patients are able to significantly reduce their use of pain medicine within a few weeks of the procedure.
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This information is provided by the Cleveland Clinic and is not intended to replace the medical advice of your doctor or health care provider. Please consult your health care provider for advice about a specific medical condition. This document was last reviewed on: 3/2/2007...#11277
