What is Kyphoplasty?

This minimally-invasive procedure repairs a vertebral compression fracture. It helps restore the spine’s natural shape. Some patients experience rapid pain relief after the procedure.

Benefits

Kyphoplasty provides substantial benefits for individuals with vertebral compression fractures or spinal deformities, including immediate pain relief, improved mobility and posture, reduced disability, minimized medication reliance, quick recovery, prevention of future fractures, and an overall enhanced quality of life.

Understanding Compression Fractures

The spine is made up of 33 bones called vertebrae. When one of these bones breaks it is a compression fracture. These fractures happen most often to bones that have weakened over time and can no longer bear weight. Once pushed past its breaking point, the bone collapses.

More than 700,000 compression fractures occur in the U.S. each year. Sometimes, a compression fracture is misdiagnosed as soft tissue pain. As a result, approximately two thirds of compression fractures are undiagnosed and go untreated every year.

Causes

Compression fractures can happen as a result of an accident, like a car crash. But they can also occur as a result of a long decline in bone health. Vertebrae that have been weakened over time by osteoporosis or cancer (such as multiple myeloma and lymphoma) are especially vulnerable to fracture.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

  • Debilitating back pain
  • Increased pain while standing or walking
  • Decrease in pain while lying on the back
  • Limited mobility
  • Height loss over time
  • Deformity and disability over time
  • Loss of balance and increased risk of falling
  • Reduced lung function
  • Greater risk of future fracture
  • Disturbed sleep
  • Difficulty completing routine activities

Importance of Early Treatment

The early treatment of vertebral compression fractures through Kyphoplasty is crucial as it can effectively alleviate pain, prevent further spinal deformity, and enhance the patient’s overall quality of life, minimizing the long-term impact of the condition on mobility and daily activities. Early intervention can lead to better outcomes and a faster return to a normal, pain-free lifestyle.

Kyphoplasty Procedure

Our goal with this procedure is to…

  • Stabilize the vertebrae
  • Restore the bone to its normal height
  • Reduce pain from the fracture

Preparation and Consultation

Step-by-Step Kyphoplasty Process

Our spine physician will start by making a small, half-inch incision over the fractured area. Using the guidance of X-ray, the surgeon will insert a thin tube through the connective tissue into the side of the vertebra.

A balloon is then placed through the tube and into the vertebra. The balloon is inflated inside the vertebra to create an open space and restore height to the collapsed bone. The balloon is then deflated and removed, leaving the new vertebra cavity behind. Bone cement is then injected into the cavity. The cement strengthens the vertebrae which may allow you to stand straighter, reducing pain. Depending on the severity of the fracture, more than one balloon may be used.

Once the procedure has been completed and the fracture has been stabilized, the needle is removed, and the small opening is closed. You may need to lie on the table for a few minutes, allowing the cement to harden. Stitches and bandages are not typically necessary.

The entire procedure usually takes less than one hour if only one vertebra is being treated.

Recovery and Rehabilitation

Recovery time is minimal, and most patients can walk out the door the same day. Full recovery may take up to 48 hours.

Schedule a Kyphoplasty Consultation

Importance of Consultation

A kyphoplasty consultation in Charlotte is essential for those suffering from back pain due to compression fractures. This minimally invasive procedure can quickly relieve pain, improve mobility, and address underlying issues like osteoporosis, making it a crucial step in enhancing spinal health and overall well-being.

Preparing for the Consultation

Preparing for a Kyphoplasty consultation involves gathering medical records, listing medications, documenting your medical history, jotting down questions, and considering bringing a supportive companion to discuss your spinal condition and treatment options effectively with the specialist.

Costs and Insurance Coverage

The cost and insurance coverage for Kyphoplasty can vary depending on factors such as your insurance plan, the specific medical facility where the procedure is performed, and the complexity of your case. It’s crucial to contact your insurance provider to understand your coverage, including any deductibles, co-pays, or out-of-pocket expenses you may incur. Additionally, the healthcare provider or facility performing the Kyphoplasty can provide you with a cost estimate and assist with insurance-related inquiries to ensure a clear understanding of the financial aspects of the procedure.

Conclusion

In summary, Kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive procedure with valuable benefits for those with vertebral compression fractures or spinal deformities, offering pain relief and improved quality of life. To consider Kyphoplasty, it’s important to prepare for a consultation, understand potential costs and insurance coverage, and have open discussions with a specialist about medical history and concerns to regain spinal health and mobility.