Osteoporosis affects more than 30 million Americans each year and is estimated to be responsible for as many as 85% of compression fractures?
Alumnae of some of the most prestigious schools in the nation including Yale, Harvard and MIT, the Spine Institute physicians continue to build upon their skills by being active participants in innovative clinical trials. Their work, specifically on compression fractures and osteoporosis, has been featured at renowned spinal conventions across the nation and in publications including the National Center for Biotechnology Information, a branch of the National Institutes of Health.
What is Kyphoplasty Surgery?
Kyphoplasty (also referred to as balloon kyphoplasty) is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat spinal compression fractures that cause severe and debilitating pain, most commonly the result of osteoporosis. Through a small incision, a needle is placed into the skin and carefully guided into the targeted area of the lower back using real-time x-ray images. A balloon is placed through the needle and is inflated with an injected material, either an acrylic or bone cement, to create a hardened internal cast that stabilizes the fracture and restores the vertebra’s original shape and height.
Each patient and surgical procedure is unique and will therefore have different results. However, most patients who undergo kyphoplasty report a dramatic reduction in pain, increased mobility and improved quality of life.
Because kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive procedure and only requires a small incision, it is often performed on an outpatient basis, allowing patients to go home the same day of surgery. Walking will be possible during the first 24 hours following surgery, but should be limited as much as possible to promote healing. Regular activities can slowly be integrated into one’s daily routine after the initial 24 hour period and heavy lifting or strenuous activities should be avoided for at least six weeks.
There are risks associated with any type of medical procedure, and kyphoplasty is no exception. Bleeding, infection, allergic reactions to medicine, breathing or heart problems and bone cement leakage can occur. Although proven to be a safe and effective procedure, you can minimize your risk for complications by working with a board-certified surgeon who can properly identify, diagnosis and treat the cause of your back or neck pain.
Are you tired of living with debilitating pain that prevents you from doing the things you love? Contact The Spine Institute Center for Spinal Restoration and see if you are a candidate for Kyphoplasty. Our board-certified surgeons are part of an advanced diagnostic and multidisciplinary team who can help you determine the most appropriate treatment. Call (310) 828-7757 and schedule an in-office consultation today.