Kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat vertebral compression fractures by inflating a balloon to restore bone height then injecting bone cement into the vertebral body.
The goals of vertebroplasty are to reduce pain while also stabilizing and strengthening the fractured vertebra.
If a patient suffers from compression fractures, then the Kyphoplasty procedure may bring almost immediate pain relief and mobility.
Compression fractures result from weakness of the bones, car accidents, falls etc. where the vertebral bone suffers a break. This break not only makes the bone into a wedge shape but also provides severe pain to the person experiencing it. You can read more about it here, or watch the 2 minute video.
An MRI will be ordered, then possible treatment includes a Kyphoplasty procedure. This is done right in our office using a fluroscopy machine and imaging to monitor exactly what is happening and provide precise feedback during the procedure.
During this minimally invasive procedure, a needle will be inserted through the pedicle, and into the fractured vertebrae where a balloon is inflated. For one, this balloon will augment the plates putting them back into the proper shape. Further, this serves to provide a cavity which will then be filled with a more stable material such as cement. The cement also deadens the nerves surrounding that area – The same nerves sending pain signals to your brain about the compression fracture.
What to do Next
Call us so we can set up an appointment to discuss your options for chronic pain treatment. Dr Henriquez strives to provide an approach for personal and compassionate care.
Learn more about Back Pain
Kyphoplasty Procedure for Compression Fractures. Two-minute video.
