FAQs About Kyphoplasty
Kyphoplasty is a medical procedure used to treat specific types of spinal fractures. It aims to stabilize the fractured bone and alleviate back pain. Frequently asked questions about the procedure cover what it entails, the conditions it treats, and what to expect after. Understanding these common inquiries provides a clear overview of the treatment.
What Is Kyphoplasty?
Kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive surgical procedure. It is performed to treat spinal compression fractures, which are small breaks in the thick block of bone that makes up the front part of a vertebra. The goal of the procedure is to stabilize the fractured bone and restore some or all of the lost vertebral body height due to the compression fracture.
During the procedure, a doctor inserts a narrow tube into the fractured vertebra through a small incision in the back. A special balloon is guided through the tube and into the vertebra. The doctor then carefully inflates the balloon. This inflation elevates the fracture, returning the pieces to a more normal position. The balloon also compacts the soft inner bone to create a cavity inside the vertebra. The balloon is removed, and the doctor uses specially designed instruments to fill the cavity with a cement-like material. This material hardens quickly, stabilizing the bone.
What Conditions Does It Treat?
Kyphoplasty specifically treats vertebral compression fractures. These fractures can occur for several reasons, and understanding the underlying condition is part of the diagnostic process. Below are some common causes of fractures that kyphoplasty may address.
- Osteoporosis: This is the most frequent cause of vertebral compression fractures. Osteoporosis is a condition that weakens bones, making them brittle and more susceptible to breaking. A fracture can happen from a minor fall or even from simple actions like sneezing or lifting a light object.
- Cancerous Tumors: Certain types of cancer can spread to the spine, forming tumors that weaken the vertebral bone structure. This weakening can lead to a pathological fracture, which is a break in a bone that has been compromised by disease.
- Benign Tumors: Noncancerous, or benign, tumors can also develop in the spine. While they are not malignant, these tumors can grow and exert pressure on the vertebrae, leading to structural weakness and a potential risk of fractures.
A thorough medical evaluation will determine the cause of the fracture. Based on this diagnosis, a specialist can discuss whether kyphoplasty is a suitable option for your specific situation.
What Happens After Treatment?
After your kyphoplasty procedure, you will spend some time in a recovery area where our team will monitor you. Many patients can return home on the same day, although some may require a brief hospital stay. Your medical team will provide you with specific instructions for your care upon your return home. It’s common to feel some soreness at the incision site, but this is usually manageable.
Your doctor will schedule a follow-up appointment to check on your recovery and progress. During this visit, they will give you guidance on when and how to safely resume your daily activities. Many individuals experience a noticeable reduction in pain soon after the procedure.
To further support your recovery, your specialist might recommend physical therapy. This can be incredibly helpful in regaining your strength and improving your mobility. Closely following all of your doctor’s post-procedure instructions is necessary for a successful and smooth recovery process.
Consult a Specialist
Discussing your specific circumstances with a qualified medical professional is the best way to get personalized advice. A specialist can evaluate your condition and help you understand all available options. They will answer your questions and work with you to determine an appropriate path forward for your health. To learn more about your treatment options, schedule a consultation with a specialist in spine care.
