Patient Information Library

What is a Kyphoplasty?

Kyphoplasty is a newer treatment for patients immobilized by the painful vertebral body compression fractures associated with osteoporosis. Like vertebroplasty, kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive procedure that can alleviate up to 90% of the pain caused by compression fractures. In addition to relieving pain, kyphoplasty can also stabilize the fracture, restore height, and reduce deformity.

How is Kyphoplasty Performed?

Kyphoplasty is performed under local or general anesthesia. Using image guidance x-rays, two small incisions are made and a probe is placed into the vertebral space where the fracture is located. The bone is drilled and a balloon, called a bone tamp, is inserted on each side. These balloons are then inflated with contrast medium (to be seen using image guidance x-rays) until they expand to the desired height and removed. The balloon does not remain in the patient. It simply creates a cavity for the cement and also helps expand the compressed bone.

The spaces created by the balloons are then filled with PMMA, the same orthopaedic cement used in vertebroplasty, binding the fracture. The cement hardens quickly, providing strength and stability to the vertebra, restoring height, and relieving pain.

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.

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.

To Learn More

If you are interested in an evaluation into the cause of your pain, please contact our pain management experts at Spine Associates in Houston, TX and Beaumont, TX. We would be happy to make an appointment for a consultation and provide additional information about other treatment options.