KYPHOPLASTY
Kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive technique used to repair vertebral compression fractures (VCF). The technique combines both an older technique known as vertebroplasty and a newer technique using balloon catheter technology.
The Procedure
The procedure begins once the patient is asleep in the operating room. If general
anesthesia is contraindicated, the procedure may be done under local anesthesia. The
surgeon makes two small incisions and guided by fluoroscopy inserts a tube into the
center of the vertebral body through the pedicle (Figure 1). Through the tube, a balloon
is placed in the center and inflated, creating a cavity for the bone cement (Figure 2).
This procedure is done through both incisions, therefore two balloons are used. Once
the vertebral body is restored to its near normal height, the balloons are deflated and
removed. An instrument is then used to fill the cavity with a material similar to cement
(Figure 3). It is allowed to harden, the tube is removed and the incision is closed
(Figure 4). The procedure takes about 1 hour per vertebral body compression fracture repaired.
Why should vertebral compression fractures be repaired?
Significant cause of back pain.
Result in height loss as well as kyphosis (aka. increased curvature of the spine).
Activities of daily living become difficult to perform, such as dressing, getting
into and out of bed, cooking and washing.
Pre-operative testing and preparations
Prior to your surgery date, you will be required to undergo routine laboratory
tests, EKG and a chest x-ray. If you are over 50 years of age or have any history of
cardiac or pulmonary problems, you will also be required to have a clearance by a
cardiologist or pulmonologist, respectively. You will also be given information on what
medications, both prescription and over the counter, that need to be discontinued preoperatively
as many can interfere with wound healing and bleeding time.
What to expect in the hospital post-operatively
You will wake up in the recovery room after the operation is over. During this
time you may be disoriented and tired, which is the normal effects of the anesthesia
wearing off. Once stable, you may be greeted by friends and family.
The procedure is typically done on an outpatient basis, however, depending on your age and other medical conditions, it may be necessary to stay in the hospital overnight. Before your discharge, you will be provided with a list of “do’s and don’ts” and arrangements will be made for home health if necessary.
Once you arrive home
You may return to your activities as tolerated with minor restrictions.
Typical recovery time is 2 weeks.
After a kyphoplasty, patients should avoid strenuous exertion, heavy lifting,
bending, and twisting for 6 weeks.
Typically, formal physical therapy and rehabilitation is not necessary, however,
you should continue home stretching and strengthening exercises.
You may shower the day after your surgery at home, however, it is important to
keep the incision dry for 5 days. You may cover the incision or choose to take a
sponge bath.
Monitor your incision. It is common to have a small amount of blood and fluid
leakage, however, if there is persistent drainage contact the office. Additionally,
watch for opening of the incision, redness, or warmth around the incision, or
fever greater than 101ºF.
Do not soak in the bath or hot tub for 4 to 6 weeks.
Illustration of Procedure
 Figure 1 |
 Figure 2 |
 Figure 3 |
 Figure 4 |
(Figures from Kyphon Incorporated ™)
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