Kyphoplasty

At Southeast Orthopedic Specialists, our Spine Care Team takes pride in utilizing the latest advances in treatment options.  One of these treatment options is a procedure known as Kyphoplasty, which can help heal vertebral fractures caused by aging or injury.

What is a Vertebral Compression Fracture?

The spine is made up of many individual bones called vertebrae that stack together in a column. Just like other bones in the body, these vertebrae can fracture. A vertebral compression fracture is an injury that occurs when the main part of the vertebra, the vertebral body, experiences too much pressure and collapses in height, or becomes weakened due to osteoporosis.

Most often, modifying activity, physical therapy and possible bracing are used to treat compression fractures. However, these options may increase the loss of bone and allow for more collapse of your vertebra. A large percentage of these fractures heal within 6 weeks, but some may not and will continue to cause pain and spinal instability.

What is Kyphoplasty?

Kyphoplasty (also known as Balloon Kyphoplasty) is a minimally-invasive procedure where bone cement is injected into the vertebra to enhance its strength. The goal of Kyphoplasty is to reduce pain while also stabilizing the vertebrae and returning it to its normal height.

During the procedure a deflated balloon is inserted into the fractured vertebra to create space and restore height to the vertebrae.  The balloon is then removed and surgical cement is injected into the space to create stability.

The entire procedure requires only a small incision and most patients are able to return home the same day.  Best of all, this procedure can be performed at our in-office suite at Southeast Orthopedic Specialists.

Who is a Candidate?

Kyphoplasty is indicated for painful compression fractures resulting from injury, osteoporosis or a tumor. Your physician at Southeast Orthopedic Specialists will perform testing (x-rays, MRI and/or bone scans) to determine if a patient will benefit from the procedure.

See if Kyphoplasty is Right for You

If you have been suffering from pain and instability to due to a vertebral fracture, contact Southeast Orthopedic Specialists to schedule an appointment with our Fellowship Trained Spine Specialists.  We will discuss all of your treatment options with you and help you determine if Kyphoplasty is right for you.