Kyphoplasty Surgery

Spine Fracture Treatment

Pain Relief & Restoration for Collapsed Vertebrae

If you’ve had a recent fall, coughing spell or activity that has resulted in significant low to mid-back pain, you may be diagnosed with a vertebral compression fracture. These types of fractures are especially problematic in patients with osteoporosis, and they used to require bracing and a cessation of activity—for quite a while.

Now, advances in medical technology have resulted in a highly successful, minimally invasive procedure called kyphoplasty. This proven treatment option is ideal for spinal compression fractures, since it repairs the injury, restores alignment and reduces the chance of future spine issues. Unlike the long recovery associated with bed rest, pain medication and spinal bracing, kyphoplasty has a short recuperation time. Some patients can return to normal activity as soon as one to two days post-procedure.

What Is Kyphoplasty?

Kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive surgery performed under local or general anesthesia. The procedure rebuilds the vertebral space lost as a result of spinal compression fractures. First, a small incision is made in the skin of the back. Then, using advanced x-ray imaging technology, a narrow tube is guided through the skin to the fractured vertebra. A special balloon called a bone tamp is inserted through this tube and gently inflated, restoring the vertebral space to the desired height. The balloon is removed, and the restored space is filled with orthopedic cement called PMMA (Polymethylmethacrylate). As the cement hardens and repairs the fracture, it restores strength, stability and height to compressed vertebrae and relieves pain for the patient.

Who Is a Candidate for the Procedure?

Treatment with kyphoplasty is indicated for patients with a recent fracture caused by:

• Osteoporosis
• Myeloma
• Metastasis
• Vertebral angioma

While kyphoplasty works best for recent fractures, some patients with older injuries may also benefit. It is not appropriate for treating severe spinal deformities caused by repeated compression fractures, fractures that are the result of cancer, or injuries from auto accidents and falls.

Benefits of Kyphoplasty

For patients suffering from a compression fracture, kyphoplasty offers significant benefits:

• Pain relief usually within 48 hours of the surgery
• Restoration of vertebral height & repair of compression fracture
• Small incisions & short recovery time
• Hospital stay of one day or less
• Healing without bracing
• Stabilization of vertebrae, preventing future fractures
• Prevention of onset or worsening of spinal deformity

Risks of Kyphoplasty

As with any surgery, kyphoplasty has potential risks.

Patients should discuss the following possible complications with their PBSSM neurosurgeon:

• Leakage of unhardened cement
• Surgical complications like infection & bleeding
• Pulmonary embolism
• Allergic reactions to chemicals used
• Residual neurological problems & pain

Kyphoplasty at Princeton Brain, Spine & Sports Medicine

Most patients who undergo kyphoplasty at PBSSM report a significant reduction in pain within 48 hours of the procedure, but kyphoplasty is not appropriate for everyone. When you consult Princeton Brain, Spine & Sports Medicine about a compression fracture, you will meet with a fellowship-trained neurosurgeon to determine the best treatment option for your particular health history and diagnosis.

Princeton Brain, Spine & Sports Medicine has offices conveniently located throughout Pennsylvania and New Jersey. To schedule an appointment or learn more about advanced treatment options for spinal compression fractures and neurological conditions, call 215.741.3141 in PA, 609.921.9001 in NJ, or contact PBSSM online.