Kyphoplasty
What is a kyphoplasty?
The kyphoplasty procedure, offered by our surgeons at NeuroSpine Plus, is an advanced and minimally invasive surgery designed to relieve discomfort caused by spinal compression fractures. Through the expertise at NeuroSpine Plus, the kyphoplasty procedure successfully mitigates the risk of the development of kyphotic spinal curvature, or the forward ‘hunch’, commonly observed in the elderly population. During the procedure the structural integrity and height of the spinal bones are restored, helping maintain a healthy spine.
Patients receiving kyphoplasty at NeuroSpine Plus can expect a treatment that blends surgical precision with comprehensive care, aimed at preserving their spinal health and overall well-being.
What conditions are treated with a kyphoplasty?
Kyphoplasty may be recommended for patients who suffer from certain types of compression fractures of the spine, often resulting from conditions such as osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is frequently the culprit behind weakened vertebrae that can fracture under stress. Other mechanisms of injury can include motor vehicle accidents, traumatic falls, or the presence of cancer in the spine.
This compression of the bone structure can bring about significant discomfort, and potential nerve impairment. In addition, as discussed above, may lead to kyphotic curvature of the spine. Kyphoplasty procedures performed by our surgeons at NeuroSpine Plus aim to maintain, or even restore the vertebral height, if possible.. Not only can this process alleviate the intense pain associated with such injuries, but it can also contribute to a more fortified and upright spinal posture.
Our healthcare practitioners at NeuroSpine Plus typically reserve kyphoplasty for patients who have not found sufficient relief through more conservative treatments. These initial approaches include bracing, activity modification, and a regimen of pain medications, typically extending over a period of 6 to 12 weeks. It is important to note that many vertebral fractures can heal without the necessity of kyphoplasty.
How is a kyphoplasty performed?
Prior to your kyphoplasty, a comprehensive evaluation will be conducted by our specialists, which may include blood tests and advanced imaging techniques like X-ray or MRI scans to accurately pinpoint the fracture locations. Before the surgery, you will be given general anesthesia by a trained anesthesiologist. You will be completely asleep before the procedure begins. Once you are anesthetized, our team of experienced neurosurgeons and physician assistants will perform the following procedure:
- Utilizing the precision of X-ray imaging, our surgeon will carefully insert a needle through the soft tissue and into the affected vertebral bone.
- A medical-grade balloon is then carefully inflated, with the use of contrast visible on x-ray, to correct the deformity of the fractured vertebra and aid in the restoration of its original contour.
- Once the balloon is removed, a specially formulated medical cement is meticulously injected within the void left by the balloon to stabilize the vertebral body.
- The administration of medical cement within the affected vertebral body is also known as a vertebroplasty.
- The entire procedure is conducted with serial live X-ray imaging technology to ensure optimal placement.
Once the process is complete, the small incision sites are closed with dissolvable sutures and covered with a dry sterile dressing. A kyphoplasty procedure requires skilled and steady hands to ensure success. At NeuroSpine Plus, our neurosurgeons are renowned for their surgical outcomes. Our leading surgeons, Dr. Scheid and Dr. Hunt, alongside a multi-talented team, have decades of experience performing kyphoplasty surgeries.
What to expect following a kyphoplasty?
Following your kyphoplasty procedure, you will be transferred into a recovery area where you will be monitored closely. This procedure is typically performed ‘outpatient’, meaning you will likely go home the same day. Depending on the complexity of your surgery, medical history, and comfort level postoperatively, you may require admission for overnight observation.
Typically, patients can begin walking within an hour post-procedure, with assistance. While you might experience mild discomfort at the needle insertion site in your back, this sensation is generally short-lived, subsiding within days. Notably, many individuals report a significant reduction in pain shortly after their surgery.
It is essential to discuss postoperative activities with your doctor to ascertain which, if any, should be temporarily avoided in the interest of optimal recovery.
At NeuroSpine Plus, we are committed to ensuring you are well-informed and prepared for a smooth recovery process.
Your postoperative healing progress will be closely overseen by our team of providers, ensuring a routine recovery. A member of our team will contact you within the first 48 hours of your procedure to monitor your progress. Your initial post operative appointment will be scheduled within two weeks of your surgical date. A member of our team is always available to answer questions or address your concerns during your recovery period.
General postoperative recommendations include, but are not limited to the following:
- Use of postoperative pain medications as prescribed
- Over-the-counter Tylenol for pain
- Do not smoke
- Do not drink alcohol
- Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments
- Do not use NSAIDs until cleared by your surgeon (Advil, Ibuprofen, Motrin, Aleve, etc)
- Incision care to include washing your incision with gentle antibacterial soap 48 hours after your procedure. No scrubbing, submerging, or soaking the incision(s). No lotions, creams, oils, or ointments atop the incision(s).
When to contact your doctor's office following a kyphoplasty?
If you have concerns during your postoperative period to include, but not limited to the following:
- High fever greater than 100.4F
- Change in urinary or bowel habits
- Swelling or discoloration of one or both calves
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Palpitations
- Lightheadedness
- Incisional compromise
- Loss of strength in your arms or legs
If you have a question regarding your initial postoperative period, a member of our team is always available to answer and address your concerns at 201-399-3388.
Kyphoplasty FAQ
The recovery process for kyphoplasty is based on your health and procedure complexity. A member of our team will contact you within the first 48 hours of your procedure to monitor your progress. Your initial post operative appointment will be scheduled within two weeks of your surgical date. A member of our team is always available to answer questions or address your concerns during your recovery period.
A vertebroplasty procedure involves an immediate injection of bone cement into your fractured vertebral bone. A kyphoplasty uses an inflatable balloon to create a cavity for the bone cement. A combination of these procedures can be performed to optimize the stability of the affected vertebral body.
All surgical procedures have an inherent level of risk associated with them. With the kyphoplasty procedure performed by our board-certified neurosurgeons, the risks are rare. All risks and benefits associated with undergoing kyphoplasty are discussed at length with our board-certified neurosurgeons prior to proceeding with your procedure.
If you believe you may be a candidate for a kyphoplasty procedure, call our office today to book your consultation at 201-399-3388.