Understanding Kyphoplasty: A Comprehensive Guide on the Procedure, Risks, and Benefits
Are you or someone you know suffering from back pain caused by compression fractures in the spine? Statistics reveal that almost 1.5 million vertebral compression fractures occur globally every year, with osteoporosis being the primary cause in around 700,000 of these cases.
Individuals suffering from spinal fractures may consider alternative treatments beyond conventional methods to alleviate the debilitating effects. If you are looking for a solution, you might have come across kyphoplasty. But what is kyphoplasty exactly? What are the potential risks involved? And how does it help with spinal fractures?
Coastal Vascular Interventional Physician Aaron B. Montgomery, M.D., board-certified in diagnostic and interventional radiology, is dedicated to ensuring that his existing and prospective patients have the most current knowledge regarding modern procedures and helping them understand the various treatment options available for back pain.
What is Kyphoplasty
“Kyphoplasty is a procedure where we fix compression fractures involving the spine,” explains Dr. Montgomery. This minimally invasive procedure falls under vertebral augmentation, distinguishing itself from the earlier vertebroplasty. Kyphoplasty specifically employs techniques to elevate the collapsed vertebral body using a bone tamp or jack.
The Difference Between Kyphoplasty and Vertebroplasty
Both kyphoplasty and vertebroplasty are meant to treat broken vertebrae. Kyphoplasty involves physically elevating the vertebral body using a bone tamp to restore its height, whereas vertebroplasty solely focuses on stabilizing the fracture by injecting cement. Still, kyphoplasty uses a balloon-like device to restore vertebral height before the cement is inserted, which corrects the structure instead of just stabilizing it.
When is it Time to Consider Kyphoplasty?
Wondering if kyphoplasty is the right option? Dr. Montgomery explains, “Kyphoplasty might be suggested if you have compression fractures and severe pain that hasn’t improved with rest, bracing, physical therapy, or medicine.” Candidates often include individuals who may be elderly or frail and have osteoporosis-related fractures, spine injuries, or bone-damaging cancers like multiple myeloma.
What are the Risks and Benefits?
Risks
Understandably, all surgeries come with inherent risks. These may include:
- Infection
- Allergic reactions
- Bleeding
- Nerve injuries.
Though kyphoplasty is generally safe, Dr. Montgomery advises awareness of these possibilities.
Benefits
Kyphoplasty offers a multitude of benefits. It aids in:
- Reducing fracture-related pain
- Stabilizing the bone structure
- Restoring lost body height due to compression
How Do I Get Ready for a Kyphoplasty?
Before the Procedure
Doctors may perform imaging tests like CT scans, MRIs, or X-rays to understand the fracture better. Patients might be asked to stop certain medications and instructed about eating or drinking before the procedure.
During the Procedure
Patients are given anesthesia to minimize discomfort. The surgeon will use a thin tube to insert the bone tamp, create space, and inject the cement-like material to stabilize the bone.
After the Procedure
Most patients can return home the same day but may need to rest for about 24 hours. A gradual return to regular activity is recommended, and patients should expect reduced back pain after the procedure.
Kyphoplasty offers a promising solution for those suffering from painful spine fractures. Considering its effectiveness and minimally invasive nature, it might be a ray of hope for many seeking relief. Are you ready to put an end to your back pain? Schedule an appointment with Dr. Montgomery today to discuss your options.
