Kyphoplasty
Restoring Spinal Stability and Alleviating Pain
Kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive procedure designed to treat spinal compression fractures, often caused by osteoporosis or trauma. The procedure involves the insertion of a balloon-like device into the affected vertebrae, which is then inflated to restore the normal shape and height of the fractured bone. Once the vertebra is properly positioned, bone cement is injected to stabilize the fracture and prevent further damage. This procedure provides significant relief from pain, restores spinal height, and improves mobility for individuals who suffer from these types of fractures.
At the Brain and Spine Center of Texas, our skilled surgeons use advanced kyphoplasty techniques to deliver safe, effective, and rapid pain relief, improving quality of life for patients with spinal fractures.
Why Is Kyphoplasty Necessary?
Kyphoplasty is typically recommended for patients experiencing:
- Severe back pain due to a vertebral compression fracture.
- Loss of height or noticeable changes in posture due to spinal deformity.
- Difficulty walking or moving due to instability in the spine.
- Osteoporosis-related fractures that do not improve with conservative treatments like medication or physical therapy.
This procedure is particularly effective for patients with spinal fractures that have resulted from osteoporosis, helping to restore normal vertebral height, alleviate pain, and improve the overall stability of the spine.
The Kyphoplasty Procedure: What to Expect
Kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive procedure performed under local anesthesia and sedation or general anesthesia, depending on the patient’s condition. The steps typically include:
- Accessing the Fracture Site – The surgeon makes a small incision, usually about 1 to 2 cm, and inserts a needle into the affected vertebra.
- Inflating the Balloon – A balloon is carefully inserted into the vertebra and inflated to restore the vertebra’s original height and shape.
- Injecting Bone Cement – Once the vertebra is properly aligned, a special bone cement is injected to stabilize the fracture and ensure long-term support.
- Closing the Incision – The incision is closed, and the patient is monitored during recovery.
The entire procedure typically takes between 1 to 2 hours and is generally well-tolerated by patients.
Recovery & Post-Surgical Care
After kyphoplasty, patients can expect:
- Short Hospital Stay – Most patients are able to go home the same day or after a short stay of 1 day in the hospital.
- Pain Relief – Many patients report significant pain relief almost immediately after the procedure, with continued improvement over time.
- Physical Activity Restrictions – Patients are usually encouraged to avoid heavy lifting and high-impact activities for a few weeks.
- Follow-Up Appointments – Regular follow-ups to monitor recovery and ensure the stability of the treated vertebra.
Most patients experience a rapid recovery, with many returning to normal activities within a few days to weeks, depending on their individual condition.
Why Choose the Brain and Spine Center of Texas?
- Expert Spine Surgeons – Our highly trained and experienced surgeons specialize in minimally invasive procedures like kyphoplasty to treat spinal compression fractures.
- State-of-the-Art Technology – We use advanced imaging and surgical tools to ensure precise, effective treatment.
- Personalized Care – Each treatment plan is customized to meet the individual needs of our patients, ensuring the best possible outcomes.
- Comprehensive Post-Surgical Support – Our team provides ongoing support and rehabilitation to help you recover quickly and regain mobility.
Schedule a consultation
If you are suffering from a spinal compression fracture and the pain is affecting your quality of life, kyphoplasty may be an ideal solution. Contact the Brain and Spine Center of Texas today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how kyphoplasty can help you regain stability and comfort.