Kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive surgery used to treat spinal compression fractures.

In this video Dr.  Thuy Nguyen will explain a minimally invasive treatment option for compression fractures, called Kyphoplasty.

Spinal compression fractures occur primarily in spinal vertebrae that have been weakened by osteoporosis. Compression fractures typically occur in the thoracic region of the spine, which includes the T1 through T12 vertebrae, but may also occur in the lumbar spine, including L1 through L5.

Kyphoplasty not only repairs the injury but also prevents worsening deformity and malalignment using a synthetic polymer and helps prevent future problems. This minimally invasive procedure uses orthopedic cement or new bone substitute materials to “rebuild” the vertebral space lost as a result of the compression fracture. The procedure relieves pain, restores height, and stabilizes the vertebrae.
In the procedure, the patient lies face down on the operating table. The surgeon makes a small, half-centimeter incision over the affected area.

Kyphoplasty is performed under local or general anesthesia. Small incisions are made on your back. Using image guided x-ray technology a narrow tube is threaded through the incision to the fractured vertebra. A special balloon or an articulating needle is inserted through the tube into the vertebra and gently inflated and creates a cavity to help restore the vertebral body height and creates a channel for the bone cement or glue.
Next, the needle is removed and the space is filled with a medical grade bone cement (polymethylmethacrylate, PMMA). The cement quickly hardens, mending the fracture creating an internal cast inside of the fractured vertebra, which usually takes about 5 minutes.

My patients go home the same day as the procedure. As a neurosurgeon I can be a valuable source to answer your questions about symptoms, treatment and your healthcare. If you would like more information about treating spine compression fractures or other painful spine issue please feel free to contact our office by the phone number on your screen or request an appointment at JosephSpine.com.