About Kyphoplasty Surgery

Benefits of Kyphoplasty Surgery:

• Pain Relief: Kyphoplasty can swiftly reduce or eliminate back pain caused by spinal fractures.

• Improved Mobility: Patients often regain mobility and can return to daily activities sooner.

• Spinal Stability: The procedure stabilises fractured vertebrae, decreasing the risk of further collapse.

• Minimally Invasive: As a minimally invasive surgery, it involves smaller incisions and a quicker recovery time.

• Improved Posture: The surgery can correct spinal deformities, such as hunchback (kyphosis), caused by collapsed vertebrae.

Risks of Kyphoplasty Surgery:

• Infection: There is a small risk of infection at the injection site, as with any surgical procedure.

• Nerve Damage: Rarely, the procedure may lead to damage to nearby nerves.

• Cement Leakage: There is a possibility of the injected bone cement leaking into surrounding areas, which could cause complications.

• Allergic Reactions: Some patients may have allergic reactions to materials used during the procedure.

• Incomplete Pain Relief: In some cases, the expected pain relief may not be fully achieved.

Symptoms: Kyphoplasty is primarily indicated for vertebral compression fractures (VCFs) in the cervical spine. Symptoms include severe back pain, reduced movement, a curved spine (kyphosis), and potential nerve compression, which may result in neurological symptoms like limb paralysis or numbness.

Causes: Common causes of VCFs include osteoporosis, spinal malignancies (including metastases), trauma, and degenerative changes that weaken the vertebrae. Tumors can invade and damage bone structure, while osteoarthritis can weaken bones, making them more susceptible to fractures.

Remedies: The primary goals of kyphoplasty are to restore vertebral height, stabilize the fractured vertebra, and reduce pain. During the procedure, a balloon is inserted into the fractured vertebra and inflated to create a cavity. Once the cavity is formed, bone cement is injected to fill the space and provide support. This alleviates pain, restores spinal height, and improves mobility, allowing patients to resume daily activities with minimal discomfort. Depending on the individual case, conservative treatments such as bracing, physical therapy, and pain management may also be recommended.

Procedure of Kyphoplasty Surgery

Before the Procedure:

• Medical Evaluation: The doctor will assess your overall health, review your medical history, and order imaging tests, such as X-rays or MRIs, to confirm the presence of spinal fractures.

• Preparation: You may need to stop taking certain medications (e.g., blood thinners) a few days prior to the surgery. Follow your doctor’s instructions regarding fasting if sedation is required.

• Sedation: The procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia or mild sedation, allowing you to remain awake but comfortable. Some patients may receive general anesthesia.

During the Procedure:

• Positioning: You will lie face down on the operating table.

• Small Incision: A small incision is made on your back, near the affected vertebra.

• Balloon Insertion: The surgeon inserts a thin tube with a balloon into the fractured vertebra. The balloon is inflated gently to create space and restore the vertebra’s height.

• Bone Cement Injection: After creating the space, the balloon is deflated and removed. Bone cement is then injected into the cavity to stabilize the vertebra.

• Closure: The cement hardens quickly, and the small incision is closed. The entire procedure typically takes about 1–2 hours.

After the Procedure:

• Observation: You will be monitored for a short period to ensure there are no immediate complications. Some patients may be discharged the same day, while others may require a short hospital stay.

• Pain Relief: Most patients experience pain relief within 48 hours. Your doctor may prescribe pain medication as needed.

• Physical Activity: While heavy lifting and strenuous activities should be avoided for a few weeks, patients are encouraged to walk and engage in light activities shortly after the procedure to promote recovery.

• Follow-up: Regular check-ups with your doctor are essential to monitor healing and evaluate the results of the procedure.