Kyphoplasty – Uses, Procedure and Benefits

Kyphoplasty is a procedure that utilizes bone cement to treat compression fractures in the spine. These fractures are often associated with osteoporosis, a condition that causes bones to become porous, and usually occurs in postmenopausal women. A kyphoplasty is performed to reverse deformity that can occur as a result of kyphosis (a curvature of the upper back) and to repair lost bone height.

Procedure

A kyphoplasty is typically performed by creating a small incision in a patient’s back, through which a thin tube is inserted and pushed through the fractured vertebra. A small hole is then drilled through the tube and into the vertebra. A balloon (or bone tamp) is inserted into the vertebra through the hole. When the balloon is inflated, the vertebra is pushed back into its original shape and position. After the balloon is deflated and removed, a cavity is left in the vertebra, into which bone cement is filled in order to keep the vertebra in position.

Benefits

With the affected vertebra back in position, a patient often feels a reduction in the pain that was associated with the compression fracture. Many patients who receive a kyphoplasty experience the following benefits:

• Restored height
• Reduced deformity
• A short recovery time
• A quick return to normal activity

While a kyphoplasty is beneficial to many patients who suffer from the compression fractures often associated with osteoporosis, it may not be the best course of treatment for everyone. Be sure to speak with your doctor about this procedure to find out if it is best for you and your condition.