Any diagnosis or treatment recommendation can leave you thinking through all kinds of questions. If you’ve been told that you need kyphoplasty, sometimes also called vertebroplasty if cement is added, then you might be wondering what it is, and what it could do for you.
If ever in doubt, we strongly recommend discussing with a medical professional – but below, we’ll cover some of the common questions relating to this treatment.
What is Kyphoplasty?
A kyphoplasty is an outpatient procedure designed to treat small breaks in your spine. Without treatment, the breaks can cause compression, risking pinched nerves and making your spine shorten and curve forward. This kind of condition can result in pain, limited mobility and more.
So why does this happen? Typically, the thinning of bone that accompanies osteoporosis is the main reason for these small vertebra fractures.
Thankfully, the treatment is short, relatively simple and you’ll be home the same day.
How is Kyphoplasty Performed?
During the procedure, you’ll lie on your stomach so your doctor is able to access your back. They will insert a hollow needle into the vertebra, using a form of x-ray to guide the position of the needle. From here, an inflatable balloon-like tool is placed inside the vertebra and inflated, to open up space to be filled with bone cement as needed.
What Results To Expect From Kyphoplasty?
After treatment, many patients are symptom free and can return to the lives they previously led without pain. Your doctor may encourage rehabilitation and physical therapy to help ensure a smooth recovery, and this is recommended but not required.
As standard, we say that you’ll experience pain relief within 48 hours of the procedure. In some cases though, patients do feel pain relief immediately.
What’s To Expect For Recovery After Kyphoplasty?
Because this is an outpatient procedure, you’ll be sent home the same day. We do require somebody to drive you home after the procedure due to the anesthesia used, but you can return to your normal life pretty much immediately.
Your doctor will provide you with recovery instructions based on your specific goals, condition and treatment plan – but typically, patients are advised to avoid heavy lifting for up to 10 weeks.
If you’ve been diagnosed with spinal breaks caused by osteoporosis or similar, or have been told you need a Kyphoplasty, then reach out today. We’ll help answer your questions.
