Kyphoplasty

A kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive spine procedure designed to treat the pain and other symptoms of vertebral compression fractures. Vertebral compression fractures (compression fractures of the spine) most often are caused by osteoporosis, which is a weakening of the bones.

The procedure is typically done in a hospital, but we offer it in our Wakefield office with the assistance of a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA), allowing for a reduced length of recovery time, and it overall improves patient satisfaction. Patients are numbed with a local anesthetic, and conscious sedation is used to keep the patient relaxed and comfortable.

What is a kyphoplasty?

During kyphoplasty, prior to the cement being injected, a small balloon is placed through the needle into the vertebral body. Once in the vertebra, the balloon is inflated to create a small cavity within the vertebra. This cavity is then filled with cement. Your physician will determine which procedure is necessary.

Overview of kyphoplasty

Here’s what to expect during the kyphoplasty procedure:

• Before the procedure, you’ll get an intravenous (IV) line placed in your arm by a CRNA, so you can receive fluids and medicine during the procedure.
• You will lie face down on a special X-ray table.
• The skin over the fractured area is cleaned, prepared, and numbed.
• Using fluoroscopic (X-ray) guidance, your physician will identify the fracture in your spine.
• The tissues behind the fracture are numbed.
• Your doctor inserts a thin needle under X-ray guidance and injects bone cement until the vertebral body is filled.
• Although the cement hardens rapidly, you will lie flat for one hour after the procedure to ensure that the cement is completely hardened.

OrthoNC offers comprehensive spine expertise

OrthoNC’s spine specialists diagnose spine problems and design custom treatment plans built on a conservative, non-surgical approach. Most patients find relief through treatments including guided injections, specialized physical therapy, exercise, activity modification, and medication. When conservative care does not relieve symptoms, our highly skilled surgeon offers proven, evidence-based surgical options. Together with you, we will determine the right course of action.

Start your journey to a healthy spine. Find your spine expert, make an appointment online, or call us at (919) 562-9410 to schedule a spine consultation.