What Is a Kyphoplasty?
When a fracture occurs in the spine a minimally invasive procedure known as a kyphoplasty can create an internal cast to restore spinal structure and stability. In addition to treating spinal fractures, a kyphoplasty can also restore a compressed vertebrae to its normal height and prevent future deformities.
Your surgeon at South Florida Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine will create a small incision in the back of the spine. Small surgical instruments are inserted into the fractured vertebrae to create a channel in the bone. A special balloon called an inflatable bone tamp (IBT) is inserted into the channel and inflated. The IBT creates a cavity in the bone where the fracture occurred to restore the structure of the vertebra. Once the IBT is removed, bone cement is injected to create an internal cast.
A kyphoplasty is successful in reducing pain and restoring stability to the spine in a majority of patients.
Candidates for a kyphoplasty may be suffering from:
- Spinal fracture
- Osteoporosis
- Vertebral compression
- Stiffness or pain in the back or neck
- Excessive curvature in the spine
What Happens After a Kyphoplasty?
Improved mobility and rapid pain relief are reported in a majority of patients. A kyphoplasty stabilizes the spine and restores spine mobility pain-free.