The bones in the spine have an outer layer of dense, sturdy bone and an inner layer that contains a network of spongy bone tissue.
Osteoporosis causes the spongy bone tissue to become thinner and more porous, so even bending or lifting can cause small, painful fractures in the spine.
Kyphoplasty is a procedure for patients who experience progressive pain as a result of osteoporosis and compression fractures. Below, we asked Dr. Shoeb Mohiuddin, our expert at Regenerative Pain & Spine, to explain what kyphoplasty is and who is a good candidate for it.
Understanding kyphoplasty
Kyphoplasty is a procedure through which Dr. Mohiuddin uses a special cement to replace the lost bone density in the spine.
First, he asks you to lie on your stomach while he inserts a hollow needle through your skin, all the way to your spine. Once the hollow needle is in place, he inflates a balloon to restore the height of the compressed bone, and then he injects bone cement. Since you’re under anesthesia, you won’t feel any pain during the procedure.
The recovery is effortless as well, as there’s no downtime needed. However, due to the anesthesia, you need someone to drive you home. Your pain levels should decrease within a couple of days after the procedure.
Preparing for kyphoplasty
Upon your first appointment before the kyphoplasty, Dr. Mohiuddin will perform a physical exam and take an X-ray image of your spine to ensure this is the right procedure for you.
In addition, he’ll discuss any allergies you may have and supplements and medicines you’re taking, and he’ll make recommendations on how to prepare for the procedure. You may be recommended to stop medications such as aspirin, which can cause blood thinning and raise your risk for bleeding.
What is kyphoplasty used for?
Kyphoplasty is a procedure used for small spine fractures and pain that doesn’t get better with conservative methods. This procedure isn’t suited for pain caused by sciatica or a herniated disc.
Kyphoplasty safety
Fortunately, kyphoplasty is a very safe procedure. The only risk you’re exposing yourself to is an infection.
However, the risk of infection while the expert uses sterile tools is very low. To ensure the hollow needle doesn’t cause harm to the rest of the bones or doesn’t cause more fractures, you’ll be given medications that strengthen the bones in your spine before the procedure.
Get quick pain relief with the help of kyphoplasty
There’s no reason to continue living in pain. With the help of kyphoplasty, you can get back on your feet in a matter of days. Contact us to schedule an appointment and find out if you’re a good candidate.
