If you have been diagnosed with a vertebral compression fracture, you may be wondering if kyphoplasty is right for you. Kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive procedure that can help to relieve pain and restore the height of a collapsed vertebra.
In this blog post, we will discuss the basics of kyphoplasty, including what it is, how it works, and who is a good candidate for the procedure. We will also answer the question: is kyphoplasty a major surgery?
What is Kyphoplasty?
Kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive procedure that is used to treat painful vertebral compression fractures. These fractures are caused by the weakening of the bones, which can happen due to osteoporosis, cancer, or other medical conditions.
During kyphoplasty, a small incision is made in the back and a needle is inserted into the collapsed vertebra. A balloon is then inflated inside the vertebra, which creates space for the insertion of bone cement. The balloon is deflated and removed, and the bone cement hardens, filling in the space and restoring the height of the vertebra.
How Does Kyphoplasty Work?
Kyphoplasty works by two mechanisms:
- Relieving pain: The bone cement that is injected into the collapsed vertebra helps to relieve pain by providing structural support and preventing further collapse.
- Restoring height: The bone cement also helps to restore the height of the collapsed vertebra, which can improve posture and reduce pain.
Who is a Good Candidate for Kyphoplasty?
Kyphoplasty is a good option for people who have painful vertebral compression fractures that have not responded to conservative treatment, such as pain medication and physical therapy.
Other factors that may make someone a good candidate for kyphoplasty include:
- Age: Kyphoplasty is generally recommended for people who are over the age of 50.
- Overall health: Kyphoplasty is a safe procedure for people with good overall health. However, it may not be a good option for people with certain medical conditions, such as bleeding disorders or infections.
- Activity level: Kyphoplasty can help to improve activity level. However, it is important to talk to your doctor about how long you will need to rest after the procedure.
Is Kyphoplasty a Major Surgery?
Kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive procedure, which means that it is less invasive than traditional surgery. This means that there is less risk of complications and a shorter recovery time.
However, kyphoplasty is still a surgery, and there are some risks associated with the procedure. These risks include:
- Infection: There is a small risk of infection at the incision site.
- Bleeding: There is a small risk of bleeding during or after the procedure.
- Damage to nerves or other structures: There is a small risk of damage to nerves or other structures in the spine.
Conclusion
Kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive procedure that can help to relieve pain and restore the height of a collapsed vertebra. It is a good option for people who have painful vertebral compression fractures that have not responded to conservative treatment.
If you are considering kyphoplasty, talk to our specialists about the risks and benefits of the procedure. They can help you decide if kyphoplasty is right for you.
If you are interested in learning more about kyphoplasty, or if you think you may be a candidate for the procedure, please schedule an appointment with a spine specialist at the Spine and Pain Clinic of Texas at +1 (214) 256-3900. We can help you understand your options and make the best decision for your health.
Disclaimer:
The information provided on this blog is for general purposes only, and the treatments and procedures discussed may be subject to change. For the most accurate and authentic information, it is recommended to seek advice from qualified specialists or healthcare professionals. The content should not be considered professional advice, and reliance on it is at your own risk. Individual circumstances may vary, so it is important to consult with relevant experts for personalized guidance.
