Kyphoplasty and Vertebroplasty
Minimally invasive procedures to treat painful vertebral compression fractures
Overview
Kyphoplasty and vertebroplasty are minimally invasive procedures used to treat painful vertebral compression fractures, most commonly caused by osteoporosis, trauma, or spinal tumors. These procedures help stabilize the fractured bone, reduce pain, and improve mobility with minimal surgical trauma.
Difference Between the Procedures
Vertebroplasty: Medical bone cement is injected directly into the fractured vertebra to stabilize the bone and reduce pain.
Kyphoplasty: A balloon is first inserted and inflated to restore some vertebral height and correct deformity, then cement is injected. This may provide better height restoration.
Both procedures are highly effective for pain relief.
Treatment Indications
- Osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures
- Painful spinal fractures not improving with medication
- Vertebral fractures from trauma
- Selected spinal tumors or metastatic lesions causing vertebral collapse
Recovery & Prognosis
Most patients experience rapid pain relief within 24-48 hours. Hospital stay is typically 1 day or can be done as an outpatient procedure. Patients can usually walk within hours after the procedure. Full recovery and return to normal activities occurs within 1-2 weeks. The procedures provide immediate spine stabilization with minimal surgical trauma.