Kyphoplasty is a procedure in which your pain specialist uses a balloon-like device to restore damaged vertebrae before injecting cement into fractured tissues to repair your spine. Similarly, vertebroplasty is a spine fracture treatment that uses cement injections, but it does so without using a balloon-like device to create additional space for the cement.
To determine if you’re a candidate for kyphoplasty at Alliance Spine & Pain, a provider discusses your symptoms, lifestyle, and medical history. They complete a physical exam and may order blood tests, X-rays, an MRI, or another imaging procedure.
Your specialist may suggest kyphoplasty if you have vertebrae damage due to cancer, osteoporosis, or injuries, and vertebrae compression or collapse.
Follow your pain specialist’s instructions before undergoing a kyphoplasty procedure. Your doctor may recommend you stop taking certain medications and avoid food and drink the morning of your scheduled treatment. Make arrangements for a family member or friend to drive you home afterward.
Before kyphoplasty, you receive anesthesia to help you relax or fall asleep, thereby avoiding anxiety and discomfort.
Your pain specialist uses X-ray guidance to safely and precisely insert a needle and inflation balloon to expand the affected vertebrae into its ideal shape. They then inject cement into the treatment area to repair and strengthen the bone before removing the needle without the need for stitches.
The procedure often takes less than 60 minutes, although every patient has unique needs.
After you undergo a kyphoplasty, plan to spend time in a recovery area. You can usually go home on the same day. During recovery, you can expect temporary soreness at the injection site for a few days. However, the pain associated with a spinal fracture should diminish after the procedure.
Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous exercise until given permission by your provider, and follow up with them as needed. Your specialist may recommend you take vitamin and mineral supplements or medications to strengthen your bones and reduce the risk of further fractures. Don’t hesitate to call the Alliance Spine & Pain office with any questions.
Call the Alliance Spine & Pain office nearest you, or schedule an appointment online today to learn more about kyphoplasty and determine if it’s right for you.