A Minimally Invasive Treatment for Painful Vertebral Compression Fractures
A vertebral compression fracture can cause sudden, significant back pain and make everyday activities difficult. At ECPC Pain Specialists, kyphoplasty is one of the minimally invasive procedures we offer to treat certain painful vertebral compression fractures.
What Is a Vertebral Compression Fracture?
The vertebrae are the bones that make up your spinal column. When one of these bones becomes weakened and collapses, it is called a vertebral compression fracture.
Compression fractures are commonly associated with osteoporosis, which weakens bones and makes them more susceptible to fracture. They can also occur as a result of trauma or, in some cases, conditions affecting the bone such as cancer.
Symptoms may include:
- Sudden or worsening back pain
- Pain that increases with standing or movement
- Difficulty walking or remaining active
- Tenderness over the affected area of the spine
- Loss of height or changes in posture
What Is Kyphoplasty?
Kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive procedure designed to stabilize a fractured vertebra and treat pain associated with the fracture.
During the procedure, your physician uses imaging guidance to access the fractured vertebra. A small balloon is inserted into the vertebral body and gently inflated to create a cavity. The balloon is then removed, and medical-grade bone cement is carefully placed into the cavity to stabilize the vertebra.
The procedure requires only a small skin opening and does not typically require stitches.
Who May Be a Candidate for Kyphoplasty?
Kyphoplasty may be considered when a patient has a painful vertebral compression fracture that has been confirmed through clinical evaluation and imaging.
Your physician may consider:
- The location and severity of the fracture
- How recently the fracture occurred
- Your level of pain
- Your ability to perform normal activities
- Your response to conservative treatment
- Your overall health and medical history
Imaging such as X-rays, MRI or CT may be used to help confirm the diagnosis and determine whether kyphoplasty is appropriate.
What Happens During Kyphoplasty?
Kyphoplasty is performed using imaging guidance so the physician can precisely access the fractured vertebra.
The treatment area is numbed with local anesthetic, and sedation may be used to help you remain comfortable. A small access point is made in the back, and specialized instruments are used to access the affected vertebra.
Once the balloon creates the cavity within the vertebra, the balloon is removed and bone cement is injected. The cement hardens quickly, helping stabilize the fractured bone.
What Is Recovery Like?
Many patients are able to return home the same day, although the appropriate recovery plan depends on your individual circumstances.
Your physician will provide specific instructions regarding activity, medications and follow-up care.
Are There Risks?
Although kyphoplasty is generally considered safe, potential complications can include infection, bleeding, cement leakage, increased pain, allergic reaction and, rarely, neurological complications.
Your physician will discuss the risks and potential benefits of the procedure with you before treatment.
Take the Next Step
If you have been diagnosed with a painful vertebral compression fracture, you may have treatment options beyond simply waiting for the fracture to heal.
Contact ECPC Pain Specialists to schedule an evaluation and learn whether kyphoplasty may be appropriate for you.