Kyphoplasty: A Treatment Overview
Welcome to NovaSpine Pain Institute
At NovaSpine Pain Institute, we are dedicated to offering advanced solutions for managing spinal conditions and improving patient quality of life. One such innovative treatment we provide is kyphoplasty, a minimally invasive procedure designed to relieve pain and restore vertebral height in patients suffering from compression fractures, often due to osteoporosis or trauma.
What Is Kyphoplasty?
Kyphoplasty is a surgical procedure that involves the insertion of a small balloon into a fractured vertebra to restore its original shape and height. Once the vertebra is properly positioned, the balloon is inflated to create space, and a bone cement mixture is injected to stabilize the fracture. This procedure not only alleviates pain but also helps prevent further deformity of the spine.
How Does Kyphoplasty Work?
The primary goal of kyphoplasty is to alleviate pain and improve spinal stability. The procedure achieves this through several mechanisms:
- Pain Relief: By stabilizing the fractured vertebra and restoring its height, kyphoplasty can significantly reduce pain associated with compression fractures.
- Restoration of Spinal Alignment: The inflation of the balloon helps realign the vertebra, improving overall spinal posture.
- Prevention of Future Fractures: Stabilizing the affected vertebra may help prevent additional fractures from occurring.
The Procedure
1. Preparation: Before the procedure, you will meet with our specialists to discuss your medical history, symptoms, and treatment goals. Imaging studies, such as X-rays or MRI, will be reviewed to assess the condition of your spine.
2. Anesthesia: The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia or sedation to ensure your comfort.
3. Accessing the Spine: Using fluoroscopic guidance, the surgeon will create a small incision in your back and insert a thin tube into the fractured vertebra.
4. Balloon Inflation: A deflated balloon is inserted through the tube into the vertebra and then inflated. This creates a cavity within the bone and restores its height.
5. Cement Injection: Once the desired height is achieved, the balloon is deflated and removed. A special bone cement is then injected into the cavity to stabilize the vertebra.
6. Recovery: After the procedure, you will be monitored for a short time before being discharged. Many patients can go home the same day and often experience immediate relief from their symptoms.
Benefits of Kyphoplasty
- Minimally Invasive: The small incision and minimally invasive approach result in less postoperative pain and a quicker recovery compared to traditional surgical methods.
- Rapid Pain Relief: Many patients report significant pain reduction almost immediately after the procedure.
- Improved Quality of Life: By alleviating pain and restoring vertebral height, kyphoplasty can enhance daily functioning and overall quality of life.
- Low Risk of Complications: The procedure is generally safe with a low risk of complications.
What to Expect After the Procedure
Following kyphoplasty, you may experience:
- Mild Discomfort: Some soreness at the injection site is common and usually resolves quickly.
- Immediate Pain Relief: Many patients notice significant improvement in pain and mobility soon after the procedure.
- Follow-Up Care: Our team will schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your recovery and discuss any additional treatments if necessary.
Risks and Considerations
While kyphoplasty is generally safe, potential risks and side effects may include:
- Infection at the injection site
- Bleeding or bruising
- Allergic reactions to the bone cement
- Cement leakage (rare) that may require further intervention
Our specialists will discuss these risks with you during your consultation to ensure you are fully informed before proceeding with the treatment.
Why Choose NovaSpine?
- Expert Care: Our board-certified specialists have extensive experience in performing kyphoplasty and managing various spinal conditions.
- Personalized Treatment Plans: We recognize that each patient’s experience with pain is unique, and our treatment plans are tailored to meet your specific needs.
- Comprehensive Support: From diagnosis to recovery, our team is dedicated to providing ongoing support and guidance throughout your treatment journey.
Take the First Step Towards Relief
If you are suffering from pain due to vertebral compression fractures and are considering kyphoplasty as a treatment option, contact NovaSpine Pain Institute today to schedule a consultation. Our compassionate team is here to help you explore your options and find a path to effective, lasting relief. Let us work together to help you regain control of your mobility and improve your quality of life.