What is kyphoplasty?

Kyphoplasty injects special cement into your vertebrae creating space for the treatment with a balloon-like device (balloon vertebroplasty).

how does it work?

During the procedure:

  • An anesthesiologist will deliver medicine through an IV to either relax you and relieve your pain or put you to sleep.

  • With X-ray guidance, your doctor will insert a needle through your skin and back muscles into the bone, then inflate a balloon to help the vertebra regain its normal shape.

  • Your doctor will inject the cement while checking X-rays to ensure it’s going into the right place.

  • Your doctor will remove the needle, with no stitches needed.

  • The entire procedure will probably take less than an hour, though it may last longer if more vertebrae are treated.

Aftermath and possible side effects

After the procedure:

  • You will spend time in a recovery room. You could go home the same day, but your doctor may want you to stay overnight.

  • It’s possible that you can start walking an hour after the procedure. You may feel some soreness where the needle entered your back, but this lasts no more than a few days. You may quickly notice that you have less pain than you did before the surgery.

  • Talk with your doctor about whether you should avoid any activities after the procedure.

  • Your doctor may suggest taking certain vitamins, minerals and medications to help strengthen your bones and prevent additional spinal fractures.

The risks of kyphoplasty include:

  • Infection

  • Bleeding

  • Increased back pain

  • Tingling, numbness or weakness because of nerve damage

  • Allergic reactions to chemicals used with X-rays to help guide the doctor

  • Cement leaking out of position

Please visit our providers page to learn more.