What is Kyphoplasty?
Kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive surgical procedure designed to treat spinal compression fractures, often caused by osteoporosis, trauma, or cancer. This procedure helps restore vertebral height, stabilize the spine, and alleviate pain by injecting bone cement into the fractured vertebra. Kyphoplasty is particularly beneficial for individuals experiencing severe back pain and spinal deformity due to vertebral compression fractures.
Causes of Vertebral Compression Fractures
Compression fractures occur when the vertebrae weaken and collapse due to various factors, including:
- Osteoporosis: The most common cause, where bones become fragile and more susceptible to fractures.
- Trauma: Accidents, falls, or high-impact injuries can lead to vertebral fractures.
- Cancer: Certain cancers, such as multiple myeloma or metastatic disease, weaken the bones and increase fracture risk.
- Long-term Steroid Use: Prolonged use of corticosteroids can lead to bone density loss, increasing fracture susceptibility.
Symptoms of Vertebral Compression Fractures
The symptoms of a spinal compression fracture vary based on its severity but commonly include:
- Sudden, severe back pain that worsens with movement
- Loss of height over time due to vertebral collapse
- Hunched posture (kyphosis) caused by multiple fractures
- Limited spinal mobility and difficulty performing daily activities
How Kyphoplasty Works
Kyphoplasty is performed under local or general anesthesia and involves the following steps:
- Insertion of a Balloon Catheter: A small incision is made, and a needle is guided into the fractured vertebra.
A balloon catheter is then inserted and gently inflated to restore vertebral height.
- Bone Cement Injection: Once the desired height is achieved, the balloon is removed, and medical-grade bone cement is injected into the space to stabilize the vertebra.
- Solidification and Stabilization: The cement quickly hardens, reinforcing the bone structure and providing immediate pain relief.
The procedure typically takes about an hour per treated vertebra and is performed on an outpatient basis, allowing for a quick recovery.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
Most patients experience pain relief within hours of the procedure and can return to normal activities within a few days.
Recovery recommendations include:
- Avoiding strenuous activities for a few weeks
- Engaging in physical therapy to strengthen the back muscles
- Maintaining good posture and bone health through diet and exercise
Benefits of Kyphoplasty
- Rapid pain relief and improved mobility
- Restored vertebral height, preventing spinal deformity
- Minimally invasive with a short recovery time
- Reduced risk of future fractures by stabilizing weakened bones
When to Consider Kyphoplasty
Kyphoplasty is recommended for individuals experiencing severe pain from vertebral compression fractures that do not improve with conservative treatments like pain medication, bracing, or physical therapy. If left untreated, compression fractures can lead to chronic pain, reduced mobility, and spinal deformity.
Preventing Vertebral Compression Fractures
To reduce the risk of fractures and maintain spinal health:
- Maintain strong bones through a calcium and vitamin-D-rich diet
- Engage in weight-bearing and resistance exercises
- Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption
- Manage osteoporosis with medication if prescribed by a doctor
When to See a Doctor
If you experience sudden back pain, loss of height, or a hunched posture, consult a healthcare professional. Early diagnosis and intervention with procedures like kyphoplasty can prevent complications and improve overall quality of life.
