What Is Kyphoplasty?

Kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat painful vertebral compression fractures, most commonly caused by osteoporosis. These fractures occur when a spinal vertebra collapses or compresses, often leading to sudden back pain, reduced mobility, and, in some cases, spinal deformity.

The goal of kyphoplasty is to stabilize the fractured vertebra, reduce pain, and help restore spinal alignment. By reinforcing the weakened bone from the inside, many patients experience significant pain relief and improved function.

Understanding Osteoporosis:

Osteoporosis is a condition in which bones lose density and strength over time, making them more fragile and prone to fracture. It is especially common in postmenopausal women and older adults, though men can also be affected.

In osteoporosis:

• Bone becomes less dense and more porous

• Minor stresses (such as bending, lifting, or even coughing) can cause fractures

• The spine is one of the most common fracture sites

Vertebral compression fractures related to osteoporosis can cause sudden, severe mid-back or low-back pain. Some patients notice height loss or progressive forward curvature of the spine (kyphosis). Early diagnosis and treatment of osteoporosis are critical to preventing future fractures.

How the Kyphoplasty Procedure Works:

Kyphoplasty is typically performed in an outpatient setting using imaging guidance (fluoroscopy).

During the procedure:

1. A small incision is made in the back.

2. A narrow tube is guided into the fractured vertebra.

3. A small balloon is inserted and gently inflated inside the vertebral body.

   • This can help restore some of the lost height.

4. The balloon is removed, and medical-grade bone cement is injected into the space.

5. The cement hardens quickly, stabilizing the fracture.

The procedure usually takes about 30–60 minutes per treated level. Most patients go home the same day or the following day.

Who Is a Candidate?

Kyphoplasty may be considered for patients who:

• Have painful vertebral compression fractures confirmed by imaging

• Have pain that has not improved with conservative treatment (rest, bracing, medications)

• Have fractures related to osteoporosis

• Have certain fractures related to cancer or other bone-weakening conditions

Not all compression fractures require kyphoplasty. Some improve with time and conservative care. Your physician will determine whether the procedure is appropriate based on imaging, timing of the fracture, and symptom severity.

What to Expect After the Procedure:

Many patients report rapid pain improvement within 24–48 hours. Some experience immediate relief.

Following kyphoplasty:

• Activity is gradually resumed

• Heavy lifting is avoided initially

• Osteoporosis treatment should be addressed to prevent additional fractures

While kyphoplasty stabilizes the treated vertebra, it does not cure osteoporosis. Long-term bone health management, including medications, calcium, vitamin D, and weight-bearing exercise, is an important part of care.

Risks and Considerations:

Kyphoplasty is generally safe when performed by experienced specialists. However, as with any procedure, there are potential risks, including:

• Bleeding or infection

• Cement leakage outside the vertebra (usually minor and asymptomatic)

• Rare nerve compression

• Adjacent level fractures (often related to underlying osteoporosis rather than the procedure itself)

Careful imaging guidance and proper patient selection help minimize these risks.

Our Approach:

At our clinic, kyphoplasty is part of a comprehensive spine care strategy. We focus not only on treating the fracture but also on addressing the underlying bone health issue to reduce the risk of future fractures.

Pain relief is important, but preventing the next fracture is equally critical.

Reference:

Available at Cleveland Clinic: “Kyphoplasty Procedure”