Balloon kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive procedure performed to treat vertebral body compression fractures. Kyphoplasty uses orthopaedic bone cement to stabilize the fracture. Benefits include spinal deformity correction, significant pain relief, and, for many patients, the ability to resume a normal lifestyle.
Balloon Kyphoplasty Procedure
Kyphoplasty is performed under local or general anesthesia. A small incision is made in the back. Using image guided x-ray technology a narrow tube is threaded through the incision to the fractured vertebra. A special balloon, a bone tamp is inserted through the tube into the vertebra and gently inflated to restore the vertebral body height. Next, the bone tamp is removed and the space is filled with polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), an orthopedic bone cement. The cement hardens and repairs the fracture and stabilizes and strengthens the vertebral body. Vertebral body height is restored and pain is relieved. The procedure takes about an hour for each fracture treated.
Benefits
There are many potential benefits for appropriate patients who undergo balloon kyphoplasty. These include, but are not limited to, the following.
- It is a minimally invasive procedure, which means small incisions and may result in shorter surgical recovery time.
- Patients only need a short hospital stay (sometimes outpatient).
- Most patients experience immediate pain relief and are quickly able to return to their normal daily activities.
- No bracing is required.
- Future fractures may be avoided.
- By stabilizing the fractured vertebra, the onset or worsening of severe spinal deformity is prevented.
Possible Risks Complications
All surgical procedures, including kyphoplasty involve risks and complications. Some risks and complications are not related to the procedure, but the patient’s general health. The patient should discuss with the surgeon all details, including potential risks, relating to his or her specific case.
Conclusion
Balloon kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive procedure used to help heal compression fractures of the vertebrae. It relies on a small incision, specialized tools, and orthopedic cement. Many patients report immediate pain relief.