What is Kyphoplasty?
Are You a Candidate?
If you’re experiencing worsening back pain due to a compression fracture and find your daily activities limited, you may be an ideal candidate for kyphoplasty. It’s essential that your pain stems from the compression fracture itself and not from other spinal conditions like disk herniation or arthritis. Before proceeding with the procedure, your healthcare provider will conduct imaging tests to confirm the presence of a vertebral fracture and assess your overall bone health.
Preparing for Kyphoplasty
Before your scheduled kyphoplasty, your healthcare provider will perform a physical examination and order necessary tests to ensure your safety during the procedure. You’ll receive specific instructions, including medication management, dietary restrictions, and smoking cessation recommendations if needed. On the day of the surgery, you’ll be given either moderate sedation or general anesthesia, depending on your surgeon’s preference.
During Kyphoplasty
The procedure itself typically takes less than an hour per section of the spine. Using fluoroscopy guidance, your surgeon will insert a hollow needle into the affected vertebra and inflate a balloon-like device to restore vertebral height. Once the space is created, bone cement is injected to stabilize the bone structure and relieve pressure on surrounding nerves.
After Kyphoplasty
Kyphoplasty is an outpatient procedure, allowing you to return home the same day. While you can resume normal activities soon after, it’s essential to avoid strenuous tasks until your overall bone health improves. Your surgeon will provide post-operative care instructions, including bandage management and monitoring for any signs of complications.
Risks and Benefits
The benefits of kyphoplasty are numerous, including reduced pain, prevention of kyphosis, and minimal recovery time. With a high success rate of approximately 92%, many individuals experience significant pain relief following the procedure. While complications are rare, potential risks include infection, nerve damage, and cement migration. Your healthcare provider will take necessary precautions to minimize these risks and ensure a positive outcome.
Recovery and Outlook
Most patients experience pain relief and improved mobility within 48 hours of kyphoplasty. While soreness may persist initially, it typically resolves within a few days. Your healthcare provider will guide you on when it’s safe to resume regular activities, emphasizing the importance of gradual reintroduction to prevent further injury.
Patient-Centered Care
At Holistiq Spine & Orthopaedic Clinic, we accept major health insurance plans, ensuring accessibility to quality care for all our patients. If you’re ready to take control of your pain and regain your freedom of movement, call (469) 444-7246 to schedule a consultation with our experienced team today. Let us help you live life to the fullest once again with kyphoplasty.
