Vertebral compression fractures happen when the bones of the spine, known as vertebrae, break or collapse. This is often a result of underlying bone weakness, but direct trauma can also cause these fractures. An untreated collapsed vertebra may alter posture, reduce mobility, and affect daily life. One procedure used for these spinal fractures is kyphoplasty.
What Is Kyphoplasty?
Kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive procedure developed to repair and stabilize vertebral compression fractures. A specialist makes a small incision in the back to insert a narrow needle. Using real-time X-ray guidance, the tube is carefully guided into the fractured vertebra.
Once the tube is in place, a medical balloon is passed through it and into the collapsed bone. Inflating this balloon creates a cavity inside the vertebra, which helps restore the bone to its original height and improves spinal alignment. This balloon is then deflated and removed. The specialist fills this new cavity with a medical-grade bone cement. The hardened material provides internal stability to the fractured bone, preventing further collapse and reducing the pain caused by bone fragments moving against each other.
What Does It Address?
A specialist may suggest kyphoplasty if you have vertebral damage from conditions like osteoporosis or physical injuries that lead to compression or collapse of the vertebrae. It is often recommended for painful vertebral compression fractures that do not improve with non-surgical treatments. By repairing the physical collapse of the vertebra, the procedure targets the mechanical source of the pain. Correcting the structural problem can allow individuals to resume their daily activities with less discomfort.
What Should You Expect?
The process starts with a full medical evaluation. Your provider will discuss your symptoms, lifestyle, and medical history. They will perform a physical exam and may order imaging tests like X-rays or an MRI to determine the location and severity of the fracture. Before the procedure, your medical team will give you instructions about fasting and any adjustments to your medications. You will also need to arrange for someone to drive you home.
On the day of the procedure, you will receive anesthesia to help you relax or fall asleep. Your specialist will use X-ray guidance to insert a needle and the inflation balloon into the affected vertebra. The procedure typically takes less than an hour.
After the kyphoplasty, you will spend a short time in a recovery area for monitoring. Most patients can go home the same day. You may experience some soreness at the injection site for a few days, but the pain from the fracture itself should lessen. Your doctor will advise you to avoid heavy lifting and strenuous exercise until you are cleared to do so.
Consult a Spine Specialist
Maintaining long-term spinal health after a compression fracture involves lifestyle adjustments. Your provider might recommend physical therapy to strengthen core muscles, which helps support the spine. Regular follow-up appointments allow your medical team to monitor your progress and skeletal health. Since every patient has a different medical history and specific needs, it is necessary to seek personalized advice. Consult a spine specialist to discuss your symptoms, review your imaging results, and create a treatment plan tailored to your situation. A trained medical professional can provide the diagnostic steps needed to protect your spine and support your mobility.