Our Services / Kyphoplasty

What is kyphoplasty?

Kyphoplasty, also called balloon kyphoplasty, is a procedure that fixes compression fractures in the spine. When you’ve suffered a compression fracture, the vertebral bone has collapsed in on itself, changing the length and curve of your spine. 

Osteoporosis, a serious, often severe, bone disease that makes your bones porous and weak, is a common cause of compression fractures. Compression fractures from osteoporosis can happen when engaging in routine activities like walking down the stairs or lifting a bag off the floor.

Spinal tumors, high-impact falls, and car accidents can also cause compression fractures.

Am I a candidate for kyphoplasty?

The skilled team at the Orthopedic Center of Palm Beach County evaluates you to determine if you’re a candidate for kyphoplasty. If you have a painful compression fracture caused by osteoporosis or a pathological condition (like a spinal tumor), the team might recommend kyphoplasty.

They might also determine that you’re not a candidate for kyphoplasty if you have another spine condition that’s causing back pain, like a herniated disc or arthritis. The spinal fracture must be the source of your back pain to gain benefits from kyphoplasty.

During your kyphoplasty consultation, the team has you undergo an MRI to get detailed images of your spine to determine the best treatment.

What happens during kyphoplasty?

Kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive procedure. Your Orthopedic Center of Palm Beach County surgeon can use a general anesthetic that puts you to sleep) or a local anesthetic (to numb the spine).

While you lie on your stomach, your surgeon inserts a hollow needle through the skin and into the vertebra. They use X-ray-guided imaging (fluoroscopy) when inserting the needle to ensure accuracy.

Once the needle is in place, they insert a balloon into the vertebra, inflate it, and fill the bone with bone cement.

When can I resume my usual activities after kyphoplasty?

Most patients resume much of their routine within 24 hours. But you must avoid lifting heavy items and strenuous physical activity for up to six weeks.

Expect some pain following kyphoplasty. The Orthopedic Center of Palm Beach County team gives you specific instructions about activity following your procedure.

Though results vary, you can experience improvements in your pain soon after your kyphoplasty.

Call the Orthopedic Center of Palm Beach County today or schedule an appointment online to learn more about kyphoplasty for your compression fracture.