Kyphoplasty

Introduction:

• Kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to treat vertebral compression fractures, often caused by conditions like osteoporosis or spinal tumors.

Procedure Overview:

1. Objective:

   • The goal of kyphoplasty is to stabilize fractured vertebrae, reduce pain, and restore vertebral height.

2. Anesthesia:

   • The procedure is typically done under local or general anesthesia, depending on individual circumstances and surgeon preferences.

3. Incision:

   • A small incision is made in the back near the fractured vertebra.

4. Balloon Insertion:

   • A special balloon catheter is guided through a needle into the fractured vertebra under real-time X-ray guidance.

5. Balloon Inflation:

   • The balloon is inflated to create a cavity or space within the vertebra, lifting the collapsed bone.

6. Balloon Deflation and Removal:

   • After achieving the desired height, the balloon is deflated and removed.

7. Bone Cement Injection:

   • The cavity created by the balloon is filled with bone cement, which hardens quickly, stabilizing the vertebra.

8. Closure:

   • The small incision is closed with stitches or adhesive strips.

Benefits of Kyphoplasty:

1. Pain Relief:

   • Kyphoplasty aims to significantly reduce or eliminate pain associated with vertebral compression fractures.

2. Restoration of Vertebral Height:

   • By restoring the height of the fractured vertebra, the procedure can improve spinal alignment.

3. Improved Spinal Alignment:

   • The stabilized vertebra contributes to improved overall spinal alignment.

4. Minimally Invasive:

   • Kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive procedure, resulting in smaller incisions and typically a shorter recovery time compared to traditional open surgery.

5. Enhanced Quality of Life:

   • Patients often experience improved mobility and an enhanced quality of life after the procedure.

Considerations and Risks:

1. Infection:

   • Infections are rare but can occur. Follow post-operative care instructions carefully.

2. Cement Leakage:

   • There is a slight risk of cement leakage into surrounding tissues, although precautions are taken to minimize this risk.

3. Allergic Reaction:

   • An allergic reaction to the bone cement is extremely rare.

4. Nerve or Vascular Injury:

   • While rare, there is a risk of injury to nerves or blood vessels during the procedure.

5. Anesthesia Risks:

   • As with any surgical procedure, there are risks associated with anesthesia.

Preparation and Recovery:

1. Preoperative Evaluation:

   • Before the procedure, a thorough evaluation of your medical history and possibly preoperative tests will be conducted.

2. Recovery Period:

   • After the procedure, there might be a short period of rest. Most patients experience significant pain relief and improved mobility shortly afterward.

3. Post-operative Instructions:

   • Follow all post-operative instructions provided by your healthcare provider for a smooth recovery.

Alternatives and Questions:

1. Alternative Treatments:

   • It is typical to brace a spinal fracture before trying to repair it. Most spinal fractures will repair by self healing in six weeks. Kyphoplasty is usually performed after this period. 

2. Questions:

   • Feel free to ask any questions or express concerns about the procedure. Your healthcare provider is here to provide information and address your needs.

Informed Consent:

• Before the procedure, you will be asked to provide informed consent, indicating that you understand the procedure, its potential risks and benefits, and that you have had the opportunity to ask questions.

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