Spinal compression fractures can occur due to a variety of causes, including bone tumors, trauma to the back, or weakened bones from osteoporosis. If left untreated, they can cause debilitating back pain, nerve damage, difficulty walking, changes in posture, and even loss of height. In severe cases, patients may become bedridden.
Kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that can help treat spinal compression fractures. The procedure involves using a small balloon to gently lift the fractured vertebrae and create a cavity.
The cavity is then filled with a cement-like material to stabilize the bone and reduce pain. Kyphoplasty is a safe and effective way to treat spinal compression fractures, allowing for a quicker return to daily activities and a better quality of life.
Our pain management specialists at Injury Medicine in Lexington, SC are highly experienced in performing kyphoplasty procedures for treating spinal compression fractures. If you have been diagnosed with this condition and are looking for effective treatment options, don’t hesitate to contact us at 864-866-PAIN to schedule an appointment with our doctors. They can evaluate your condition and determine whether kyphoplasty is the right treatment option for you.
What Is Kyphoplasty?
Kyphoplasty is a type of minimally invasive surgery used to treat spinal compression fractures resulting from conditions that weaken the bones, such as osteoporosis. The procedure derives its name from the word “kyphosis,” which refers to the forward curvature of the top of the spine.
Kyphoplasty is usually considered when other pain management treatments have failed to provide relief. Our pain management specialists at Injury Medicine have extensive experience performing kyphoplasty in Lexington, SC.
How Does Kyphoplasty Work?
Kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive surgical procedure designed to treat spinal compression fractures caused by conditions such as osteoporosis. The procedure involves the injection of bone cement into the fractured vertebra directly. Before the cement is added, a balloon is inserted into the fracture to expand the space.
- Before the day of the procedure, a member of the Injury Medicine team in Lexington, SC will contact you and provide instructions on how to prepare and what time to arrive. It is important to consult with your doctor about taking any medications prior to the exam, especially if you are taking blood thinners or have diabetes. If instructed to take your medications, do so with sips of water. Fasting for 8 hours prior to the procedure is required, but clear liquids are allowed, except for milk and orange juice. Comfortable clothing should be worn on the day of the procedure.
- During the procedure, the patient is placed under local or general anesthesia, and a small incision is made in the back. Using X-ray guidance, a narrow tube called a trocar is passed through the incision and guided into the fractured vertebra. A small balloon is then inserted through the trocar and inflated inside the vertebra, creating a cavity for the bone cement. The balloon is then deflated and removed, and the cavity is filled with bone cement, which hardens quickly and acts like an internal cast. Once the cement has hardened, the trocar is removed, and the incision is closed.
- After the procedure, the patient will be monitored in a recovery room for a few hours before being discharged. Patients typically experience significant pain relief immediately after the procedure, although it may take a few days for the full effects to be felt. Patients are advised to avoid strenuous activities for at least two weeks after the procedure and may need to wear a back brace for a short time to help support the spine. It is also recommended to undergo physical therapy to strengthen the back muscles and improve flexibility.
What Are the Risks of Kyphoplasty?
Bone Cement Leakage: There is a slight possibility that bone cement used in kyphoplasty may leak along the outside of the needle and into the surrounding soft tissues. This may occur when the needle is being removed from the vertebra. It’s important to note, however, that this is a rare complication and steps are taken during the procedure to minimize this risk.
Paralysis: This is an exceedingly rare complication that can occur during kyphoplasty if the spinal cord or nerve root is damaged.
Allergic Reaction to Bone Cement or Other Agents: There is a small possibility of having an allergic reaction to one of the agents used during kyphoplasty, such as the bone cement or the solution that makes the balloon visible on the fluoroscope.
Nerve Damage: Any surgical procedure on the spine has inherent risks, including potential damage to the spinal nerves or cord, which may result in numbness or paralysis.
Pulmonary Embolism: If bone cement leaks into a vein during kyphoplasty, it can potentially travel to the lungs and cause a pulmonary embolism, which is a blockage in the lung artery. However, this is a rare complication that can be prevented by careful monitoring and proper technique during the procedure.
Why Choose Injury Medicine for Kyphoplasty in Lexington?
Injury Medicine in Lexington, SC offers comprehensive spine pain care with a personalized approach to treatment and therapy. Patients receive individualized care to achieve their unique goals.
Here are three reasons why Injury Medicine is an excellent choice for kyphoplasty in Lexington, SC:
Quality Care
At Injury Medicine, our certified and experienced doctors work closely with pain control specialists and interventional radiologists to provide compassionate, quality care for patients seeking relief from spine pain. Our highly skilled surgical team has years of experience in performing delicate spinal procedures, including kyphoplasty, and will take expert care of you to help you return to doing the activities you enjoy.
Minimally Invasive Procedures
Kyphoplasty is our top recommendation for patients with spinal compression fractures. This minimally invasive procedure provides a viable alternative to traditional surgeries when other treatment methods have failed to deliver satisfactory results. With faster recovery times and fewer complications, kyphoplasty is a safe and effective way to stabilize fractured bones, reduce pain, and improve mobility.
Pain-Free Living
At our facility in Lexington, SC, we are dedicated to providing the best possible care to our patients who suffer from spinal-related pain. Our team of highly specialized doctors has extensive experience in treating even the most complex cases. We are committed to eliminating pain and helping our patients return to a pain-free life.
Is Kyphoplasty Right for You? Call Us to Find Out!
If you have been experiencing persistent pain and other treatments have not provided relief, kyphoplasty may be the solution you need to improve your quality of life, mobility, and reduce the use of pain relief medication. At Injury Medicine, our highly skilled medical team in Lexington, SC can help you determine if kyphoplasty is right for you and provide the best care possible.
Call us today at 864-866-PAIN to schedule your appointment.
