OVERVIEW OF KYPHOPLASTY
BRIEF SUMMARY OF WHAT TO EXPECT
Kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat painful vertebral compression fractures, often resulting from osteoporosis. The procedure stabilizes the fracture and restores vertebral height, providing pain relief and improving mobility.
Kyphoplasty is used to treat a number of conditions such as:
Vertebral fractures caused by osteoporosis can be effectively managed with kyphoplasty.
Acute fractures resulting from trauma can be treated to stabilize the spine and reduce pain.
Kyphoplasty can be used to stabilize fractures in patients with cancer that has spread to the spine.
Conditions causing spinal deformities and associated pain can be managed with kyphoplasty.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR?
Determining whether you need this service can depend on several symptoms, including:
- Sudden, severe back pain after minor strain or injury
- Persistent back pain unrelieved by conservative treatments
- Loss of height or spinal deformity
- Pain that worsens with movement
- Reduced mobility due to back pain
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional to evaluate your condition and discuss potential treatment options.
WHAT CAN YOU EXPECT?
Kyphoplasty is performed under local or general anesthesia. A small incision is made, and a balloon is inserted into the collapsed vertebra. The balloon is inflated to create space, which is then filled with bone cement to stabilize the fracture. The procedure usually takes less than an hour per vertebra and can be performed on an outpatient basis.
RECOVERY AND RESULTS
Patients typically experience immediate pain relief and can return to normal activities within a few days. Some may need physical therapy to regain strength and mobility. Long-term outcomes are generally positive, with significant improvements in pain, function, and quality of life. The risk of complications is low, but potential side effects include infection, bleeding, or cement leakage.
WHEN TO SEEK EVALUATION:
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms above that interfere with your daily activities and have not responded to conservative treatments, it may be time to seek evaluation. Persistent pain, especially when accompanied by symptoms such as numbness, tingling, or weakness, warrants a thorough assessment by a specialist. Visiting Eclipse Clinic can provide you with a comprehensive evaluation and a personalized treatment plan to address your specific needs and improve your quality of life.