Balloon Kyphoplasty

We provide advanced, minimally invasive treatments for individuals experiencing severe pain from vertebral compression fractures (VCFs). One of the most effective procedures we offer is balloon kyphoplasty, an interventional treatment designed to restore vertebral height, strengthen weakened bones, and significantly reduce pain. This procedure is truly a curative treatment for the relentless pain of compression fractures. This procedure not only helps relieve discomfort but also improves mobility, posture, and overall quality of life, allowing patients to regain their daily activities with greater ease.

What is Balloon Kyphoplasty?

Balloon Kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive procedure designed to treat spinal compression fractures, often caused by osteoporosis, cancer, or traumatic injury. The procedure involves inserting a small balloon into the fractured vertebra, inflating it to restore height, and then filling the space with bone cement to stabilize the spine.

What Conditions Can Be Treated with Balloon Kyphoplasty?

Balloon Kyphoplasty is primarily used to treat vertebral compression fractures (VCFs), which can result from:

Osteoporosis – A condition that weakens bones, making them prone to fractures.
Metastatic Cancer – Cancer that spreads to the spine and causes bone weakening.
Multiple Myeloma – A type of blood cancer affecting the bone marrow.
Trauma – Injuries from falls, accidents, or other sudden impacts.

What to Expect During the Balloon Kyphoplasty Procedure

Step-by-Step Process:

Interventional Pain Management, Pain Management Solutions, Chronic Pain Treatment, Nerve Pain Management, Spinal Cord Stimulator, Non-Surgical Pain Relief, Medial Branch Nerve Blocks, Joint Injections For Arthritis, Herniated Disc Treatment, Pain Relief For Muscle Strain, Pain Alleviation

Preparation

The procedure is performed under local or general anesthesia. Patients are positioned face-down on the operating table.

Closure and Recovery

The incision is closed, and the patient is monitored for a short period before being discharged.

Preparation: Before the Procedure

Medical Evaluation

Your doctor will perform a comprehensive history and physical exam, which may include imaging tests such as X-rays or MRIs, to confirm the diagnosis and plan the procedure.

Medications

Inform your physician about any medications or supplements you are taking, as certain medications, like blood thinners, may need to be paused before the procedure.

Fasting

As you will be lying face down for the procedure we recommend that you refrain from eating for several hours beforehand.

Clothing & Transportation

Wear loose, comfortable clothing and arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure.

Consent & Instructions

You will review and sign a consent form and receive detailed guidance on what to expect before, during, and after the procedure.

During the procedure: The procedure usually lasts 10-15 minutes

Sterile Preparation

The area for injection will be thoroughly cleaned with antiseptic solution to prepare a sterile field for the procedure. The physician will wear sterile gloves for the duration of the procedure.

Anesthesia

Local anesthesia such as Lidocaine will be injected to numb the area (similar to the numbing you would receive at the dentist) to ensure comfort during the procedure.

Positioning

You will lie on your stomach on a specially designed table, allowing the doctor easy access to your spine.

Guided Injection

A small incision is made, and a hollow needle is inserted into the fractured vertebra under X-ray guidance.

Balloon Inflation

A small balloon is inserted through the needle and carefully inflated to restore the vertebral height.

Cement Injection

The balloon is deflated and removed, and bone cement is injected into the cavity to stabilize the vertebra.

Bandage

After the injection is complete, the area is cleaned, and a bandage is applied to protect the site.

After the Procedure: Post-Care

Monitoring

You will rest in a recovery area while your vital signs are monitored for about 15 minutes.

Pain Relief

Many patients experience immediate or significant pain relief, though many also do not feel the full benefits until 2 weeks as the steroids take time to work. Mild discomfort at the injection site is normal and should subside within a few days.

Activity Restrictions

Avoid heavy lifting, bending, or strenuous activities for the first week. However, light walking and routine daily activities are encouraged to aid recovery.

Follow-Up

A follow-up appointment will be scheduled to review the results of the injection and discuss the next steps for long-term pain relief.

Benefits of Balloon Kyphoplasty

Pain Relief

Most patients experience immediate or significant pain relief.

Improved Mobility

Restores spinal stability and function, allowing for better movement.

Minimally Invasive

Small incisions lead to faster recovery times.

Outpatient Procedure

Many patients can go home the same day.

Reduced Risk of Further Fractures

Stabilizing the vertebra helps prevent additional damage.

Risks and Side Effects of Balloon Kyphoplasty

While Balloon Kyphoplasty is generally considered safe, it does carry some risks and potential side effects, including:

Infection – Though rare, any surgical procedure carries a risk of infection.
Cement Leakage – In some cases, bone cement may leak outside the vertebra, potentially leading to complications.
Nerve or Spinal Cord Damage – Improper placement of the needle or cement leakage can affect nearby nerves, causing pain or neurological issues.
Blood Clots – A rare complication that can arise due to prolonged immobility after surgery.
Allergic Reactions – Some patients may have an allergic reaction to anesthesia or bone cement.
Adjacent Fractures – There is a small chance that reinforcing one vertebra may increase stress on adjacent vertebrae, leading to new fractures.