Kyphoplasty/Vertebral Augmentation
In older adults, osteoporosis is often the cause of spine fractures. Osteoporosis affects bone density, weakening bones within the body and making them more susceptible to breaking. Women over 50 are at the highest risk for osteoporosis and Caucasian and Asian women are at a higher risk than women of other ethnicities.
When the spine fractures, the vertebra can also weaken and collapse. Kyphoplasty is a type of minimally invasive vertebral augmentation procedure that simultaneously restores height to the vertebra and strengthens it, resulting in most cases in immediate pain relief.
During the procedure, an interventional radiologist guides a catheter into the fractured vertebra. Special balloons inflate the vertebra to its original size, and are then deflated and removed, leaving a hollow cavity. Next, a special fast-drying bone cement is injected into the cavity, which hardens and restores the vertebra to its original size and shape.
Preparation for Kyphoplasty
You will be given specific instructions by your interventional radiologist when preparing for a minimally invasive kyphoplasty procedure.
Procedure Time
The length of the kyphoplasty procedure is typically one hour (unless multiple fractures are being treated, which can take more time) followed by a short observation period. In most cases, you can return home the same day.