Kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that is used to treat vertebral compression fractures. These fractures occur when the bones in the spine become weakened and compressed, often as a result of osteoporosis, cancer, or trauma. Kyphoplasty can relieve pain and restore the height of the affected vertebrae.
What is the procedure?
During the procedure, a small incision is made in the back and a narrow tube is inserted into the affected vertebrae. A special balloon is then inserted through the tube and inflated to create a space within the vertebrae. Once the space is created, the balloon is deflated and removed, and a special cement-like material is injected into the space to stabilize the vertebrae.
Kyphoplasty is usually performed on an outpatient basis, meaning that patients can go home the same day as the procedure. Recovery time is relatively short, with most patients returning to their normal activities within a few days to a week after the procedure.
The benefits of kyphoplasty are numerous. The procedure can help to relieve pain and improve mobility in patients with vertebral compression fractures. It can also help to prevent further deformity of the spine, as well as reduce the risk of future fractures.
What are the benefits?
Some of the benefits of Kyphoplasty include:
- Pain relief: Kyphoplasty is highly effective at reducing pain caused by spinal compression fractures. Many patients report significant pain relief immediately after the procedure.
- Improved mobility: Kyphoplasty can restore the height of compressed vertebrae, which can improve mobility and reduce the risk of future fractures.
- Short recovery time: Kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive procedure, which means that it typically requires only a short recovery time compared to more invasive surgeries.
- Low risk of complications: Kyphoplasty is a safe and low-risk procedure, with a low incidence of complications.
- Improved quality of life: By reducing pain and restoring mobility, kyphoplasty can improve patients’ overall quality of life and allow them to resume their daily activities.
Is Kyphoplasty safe?
Kyphoplasty is considered a safe procedure with low risk of complications. However, as with any medical procedure, there are potential risks and complications that patients should be aware of, including:
- Infection: There is a risk of infection with any surgical procedure, although the risk is low with Kyphoplasty.
- Bleeding: There is a small risk of bleeding during or after the procedure.
- Nerve damage: In rare cases, nerves near the treated area may be damaged, leading to numbness, weakness, or other neurological symptoms.
- Cement leakage: There is a small risk that the bone cement used in the procedure can leak out of the treated vertebra and into surrounding tissue, which can cause pain and other complications.
- Allergic reaction: There is a small risk of an allergic reaction to the materials used during the procedure.
- Failure to relieve pain: Although Kyphoplasty is highly effective in relieving pain associated with VCFs, it may not be effective for all patients.
Generally, Kyphoplasty is a safe and effective procedure for treating VCFs, and serious complications are relatively rare, and the vast majority of patients who undergo kyphoplasty experience significant pain relief and improved quality of life. However, as with any medical procedure, patients should discuss the risks and benefits with their doctor and carefully consider all options before deciding to undergo the procedure.
In conclusion, kyphoplasty is a safe and effective treatment option for patients with vertebral compression fractures. If you or someone you know is experiencing back pain or other symptoms of a compression fracture, talk to your doctor about whether kyphoplasty may be an appropriate treatment option.
We at MVM Health offer kyphoplasty as a treatment option for patients with vertebral compression fractures based on a thorough analysis of the patient’s condition. It’s important to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for your individual situation. We consider factors such as the severity of your trauma, any underlying medical conditions, and your overall health and medical history when deciding which treatment option may be most effective for you.
MVM Health is ready to help you improve your quality of life with individualized treatment plans. If you are looking for pain care near Lehigh Valley, East Stroudsburg, Scranton, Wilkes Barre, and surrounding communities, MVM Health cares about your well-being. Call 570-445-2200 to schedule a consultation today or request an appointment by clicking below.
