Relieve back pain with kyphoplasty

If you are experiencing severe back pain due to a spinal compression fracture, kyphoplasty may be a treatment option worth considering. This minimally invasive procedure is designed to relieve pain, stabilise the spine, and restore lost vertebral height. In his latest online article, Professor Hilali Noordeen explains what kyphoplasty is, how it is performed, and what you can expect during recovery.

What is kyphoplasty?

Kyphoplasty is a surgical procedure aimed at treating spinal compression fractures, which often result from osteoporosis (a condition where bones become weak and brittle), trauma, or certain types of cancer. These fractures can cause significant pain and lead to a hunched posture, also known as kyphosis. During kyphoplasty, a special type of medical-grade cement is used to stabilise the fractured vertebra. This helps alleviate pain and prevents further collapse of the bone.

The procedure: What to expect

Preparation: Before the procedure, your doctor will conduct a thorough medical evaluation, including imaging tests such as X-rays or MRI scans, to precisely locate the fracture.

Anaesthesia: Kyphoplasty is usually performed under local anaesthesia (numbing the specific area) or general anaesthesia (where you are put to sleep), depending on your health and preferences.

Steps of kyphoplasty:

1. Insertion of the balloon: A small incision is made in your back to allow the insertion of a narrow tube. Using X-ray guidance, a balloon catheter is carefully placed into the fractured vertebra.

2. Inflation: The balloon is gently inflated to create a cavity and restore the vertebra to its normal height.

3. Cement injection: Once the cavity is formed, the balloon is removed, and the space is filled with a special bone cement. This cement hardens quickly, stabilising the vertebra. The entire procedure typically takes about an hour for each vertebra treated.

Recovery and aftercare

Immediate post-procedure: Most patients experience significant pain relief within 48 hours. You will likely be monitored in a recovery area for a few hours before being allowed to go home the same day.

Short-term recovery: You might experience mild soreness at the incision site, which can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication. It is important to avoid strenuous activities for a few weeks to ensure proper healing.

Long-term considerations: Regular follow-up appointments will be required to track your progress. Engaging in weight-bearing exercises and maintaining a healthy diet rich in calcium and vitamin D can help prevent future fractures. Additionally, your doctor might recommend medications to strengthen your bones.

Is kyphoplasty right for you?

Kyphoplasty is not suitable for everyone. It is most effective for patients with recent fractures (less than three months old) and those who have not responded to conservative treatments like bed rest, pain medication, or physical therapy. Always discuss the potential risks and benefits with your healthcare provider to determine if this procedure is appropriate for your specific condition.

Professor Hilali Noordeen is an esteemed orthopaedic adult and paediatric spine surgeon. You can schedule an appointment with Professor Noordeen on his Top Doctors profile.