Kyphoplasty

Kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive spine procedure used to treat vertebral compression fractures, which commonly occur due to osteoporosis or injury. During the procedure, a small balloon is inserted into the fractured vertebra to restore height and create space, which is then filled with medical-grade bone cement to stabilize the bone and reduce pain. This treatment can help patients experience rapid pain relief, improved spinal stability, and better mobility.

What Conditions Does This Treatment Help?

Kyphoplasty is commonly used to treat:

Spinal compression fractures
Osteoporosis-related fractures
Fractures caused by trauma or injury
Pain from weakened vertebrae

How Does Kyphoplasty Work?

Compression fractures occur when a vertebra collapses, causing pain and spinal deformity.

A small incision is made in the back
A balloon is inserted into the fractured vertebra
The balloon is gently inflated to restore vertebral height
Bone cement is injected to stabilize the bone
The cement hardens quickly, supporting the spine

This process helps reduce pain and prevent further collapse.

What to Expect During the Procedure

Before the Procedure

Imaging tests (X-ray, MRI, or CT scan) to confirm fracture
Review of medical history and medications

During the Procedure

Performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia
Small incision is made in the back
Balloon and cement are placed under imaging guidance
Procedure typically takes 1–2 hours

After the Procedure

Most patients go home the same day or next day
Pain relief may begin quickly
Light activity is encouraged within a few days

Benefits of Kyphoplasty

✔ Minimally invasive with small incisions
✔ Rapid pain relief in many patients
✔ Restores vertebral height and spinal alignment
✔ Improves mobility and quality of life
✔ Reduces risk of further spinal deformity

Many patients experience significant pain reduction within days of the procedure.

Who Is a Good Candidate?

You may be a candidate if you:

Have a recent spinal compression fracture
Experience moderate to severe back pain
Have not improved with rest, bracing, or medications
Have osteoporosis or weakened bones

Early treatment often leads to better outcomes.

Risks & Side Effects

Kyphoplasty is generally safe, but possible risks include:

Infection or bleeding
Cement leakage (rare)
Nerve irritation
Allergic reaction (rare)

Serious complications are uncommon when performed by experienced specialists.

When Is This Treatment Recommended?

Kyphoplasty is typically recommended when:

Compression fractures cause persistent pain
Conservative treatments have failed
Pain limits mobility and quality of life
Early intervention is needed to prevent spinal deformity

👉 It is considered a minimally invasive alternative to prolonged bed rest or more invasive spine surgery

Recovery & Results

Many patients experience relief within 24–48 hours
Return to light activities within a few days
Full recovery varies depending on overall health
Long-term improvement in mobility and posture

Kyphoplasty can significantly improve daily function and independence, especially in older adults.

FAQs

Is kyphoplasty painful?

The procedure is performed under anesthesia, and most patients experience minimal discomfort.

How soon will I feel relief?

Many patients feel relief within 1–2 days.

Is the cement permanent?

Yes, the bone cement remains in place permanently to support the vertebra.

Can fractures happen again?

New fractures can occur, especially with osteoporosis, so ongoing care is important.

Book an appointment here to learn more or call us at 913-339-9437 to schedule now.

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FAQs

What conditions can kyphoplasty treat?

Kyphoplasty can treat compression fractures of the spine, vertebral bone deformities, vertebral fractures, osteoporosis, hyperkyphosis, cancer metastasized to the spine, primary bone tumors, and pathologic fractures from multiple myeloma or lymphoma.

How is the procedure performed?

A small incision is made in the back, and a narrow tube is inserted to the fractured area. A balloon is inflated to restore vertebra height, then bone cement is injected to stabilize the bone.

Who is eligible for kyphoplasty?

Patients with vertebral compression fractures, osteoporosis, vertebral bone deformities, or certain spine-related cancers may be candidates for kyphoplasty.

Does kyphoplasty relieve pain?

Yes, kyphoplasty helps relieve pain caused by spinal compression and vertebral fractures.