Kyphoplasty
Kyphoplasty: Minimally Invasive Treatment for Compression Fractures
Compression fractures are painful breaks in the vertebrae that cause the spine to curve and create nerve pain due to nerve compression. These breaks can occur for a few different reasons, including injury, accidents, repetitive stress, osteoporosis, or as a side effect of spinal or bone cancer treatment.
If left untreated, compression fractures will cause the compressed section of the spine to collapse, creating a condition called kyphosis. Patients dealing with kyphosis suffer from hunched-over posture, and the condition causes significant back pain that will worsen with time if left untreated.
At Renew Pain Solutions, we offer kyphoplasty as a minimally invasive option to treat this painful condition.
What Is Kyphoplasty?
Kyphoplasty is a straightforward procedure that adds stability to the spine to compensate for the fracture. A balloon-like device is inserted into the compressed vertebrae. The device is then inflated, restoring stability and height to the area. Finally, once the spine is in the right position, your surgeon places bone cement into the device, which protects against further collapse and damage.
What to Expect During and After a Kyphoplasty Procedure
If your doctor determines that kyphoplasty is the right solution to your compression fracture, the procedure is fairly straightforward. You will arrive at the surgery center and be placed under general anesthetic or given mild sedation. Our team will discuss with you the best anesthesia option to help you stay comfortable throughout the procedure.
While you lie on your stomach, your surgeon places a thin, hollow needle called a trocar into the affected part of your spine. Throughout the procedure, X-ray imaging guides the surgeon in placing the needle correctly.
Because kyphoplasty requires no incision, you will likely be able to return home the same day as your procedure, but you will stay at the surgery center for monitoring for several hours after your procedure.
As the area heals, you can perform most of your daily activities, but you should avoid heavy lifting and strenuous exercise until the area has time to heal completely. We will work with you to determine when you can start taking part in these activities.
You should notice relief from your nerve and spine pain quickly, typically within 48 hours. That relief will continue to improve as the area heals. Some patients even experience immediate pain relief after the procedure.
Are You a Candidate for Kyphoplasty?
Because kyphoplasty is minimally invasive and highly effective, many patients who have compression fractures can benefit. We typically offer this procedure for patients who have extreme or worsening back pain due to a compression fracture, specifically when that pain is limiting them from enjoying their daily living activities.
Kyphoplasty works for patients who have compression fractures due to osteoporosis, spinal tumors, other types of cancer, or injuries. However, patients with additional factors contributing to their pain (such as arthritis or a disk herniation) may not be strong candidates for this procedure.
Benefits and Risks of Kyphoplasty
While every medical procedure involves some risk, kyphoplasty has many benefits with few drawbacks, which is why our team is confident in recommending it to our patients.
- Kyphoplasty has a high success rate.
- Most patients enjoy nearly immediate pain relief.
- The procedure can also prevent the development of kyphosis.
- Kyphoplasty has a quick recovery time
- Patients do not need physical therapy.
Like all procedures, kyphoplasty carries a few risks. Infection, nerve damage, or additional fractures are the most common. We will discuss these risks with you as we help you determine the right treatment option for your condition.
Find Lasting Pain Relief from Compression Fractures with Renew Pain Solutions
Compression fractures can be debilitating, and if left untreated they usually degrade further, causing more pain and lasting damage. Kyphoplasty provides a true solution that limits the damage and relieves a great deal of pain.
Renew Pain Solutions is dedicated to helping our patients find lasting pain relief and regain function and quality of life. If you’re interested in exploring whether you’re a candidate for this procedure, schedule a consultation with our team today.