Kyphoplasty is a medical procedure used to treat spinal compression fractures, which occur when a vertebra in the spine collapses or breaks. During kyphoplasty, a small incision is made in the back, and a special balloon device is inserted into the damaged vertebra. The balloon is then inflated to create space and restore the vertebra to its normal height. A cement-like substance is then injected into the space to stabilize the vertebra and prevent further collapse.
The benefits of kyphoplasty include:
Pain relief: The procedure can provide immediate relief from the pain associated with spinal compression fractures.
Improved mobility: Kyphoplasty can restore the height of the vertebra and improve the alignment of the spine, which can result in improved mobility and range of motion.
Reduced disability: By reducing pain and improving mobility, kyphoplasty can help reduce the disability associated with spinal compression fractures.
Low risk: Kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive procedure that can be performed under local anesthesia. The risk of complications is low compared to more invasive surgical procedures.
Short recovery time: Most patients are able to go home the same day as the procedure and resume normal activities within a few days.
Overall, kyphoplasty is an effective and safe treatment option for patients with spinal compression fractures, providing significant pain relief and improved quality of life.
Kyphoplasty procedure
Kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to treat spinal compression fractures. The procedure is typically performed by a specialized physician, such as an interventional radiologist, neurosurgeon, or orthopedic surgeon. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the kyphoplasty procedure:
Preoperative Evaluation: Before the procedure, the patient will undergo a thorough evaluation, including a physical exam and imaging studies such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRI scans to locate the fractured vertebra.
Anesthesia: The patient is placed under local anesthesia to numb the area around the spine where the procedure will take place. Sometimes, sedation is also given to help the patient relax during the procedure.
Insertion of the Balloon: A small incision is made in the back, and a special needle is inserted into the fractured vertebra under X-ray guidance. A balloon device is then guided through the needle and into the collapsed vertebra.
Inflation of the Balloon: The balloon is carefully inflated to create a space within the vertebra, lifting the surrounding bone back to its original position. This process restores the height of the vertebra and corrects any deformities, relieving pressure on the spinal cord and nerves.
Cement Injection: Once the balloon is inflated, it is removed and the cavity left behind is filled with a cement-like substance called polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA). This substance hardens quickly, stabilizing the vertebra and preventing further collapse.
Closing the Incision: After the PMMA is injected, the needle is removed, and the incision is closed using sterile surgical glue or sutures.
Postoperative Recovery: Patients are usually monitored for a few hours after the procedure before being discharged. Most patients are able to resume normal activities within a few days, but are advised to avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activities for several weeks.
Overall, kyphoplasty is a safe and effective procedure that can provide significant pain relief and improved quality of life for patients with spinal compression fractures.
What is success rate of kyphoplasty
Kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to treat vertebral compression fractures (VCFs) caused by osteoporosis or cancer. The procedure involves the insertion of a small balloon into the fractured vertebrae, which is then inflated to create a cavity. This cavity is then filled with bone cement to stabilize the fractured vertebrae.
The success rate of kyphoplasty varies depending on the specific case and underlying condition of the patient. However, research studies have shown that the procedure has a high success rate in reducing pain and improving mobility in patients with VCFs.
One study published in the Journal of Neurosurgery: Spine found that kyphoplasty resulted in significant improvement in pain relief and quality of life for patients with VCFs caused by osteoporosis. Another study published in the Journal of Vascular and Interventional Radiology found that the procedure had a success rate of up to 92% in patients with VCFs caused by cancer.
Overall, kyphoplasty is considered a safe and effective procedure with a high success rate for the treatment of VCFs. However, as with any medical procedure, there are risks and potential complications that should be discussed with your doctor.