Kyphoplasty

Kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive surgical procedure designed to treat vertebral compression fractures (VCFs) that often result from conditions such as osteoporosis, spinal tumors, or traumatic injury. Vertebral compression fractures occur when the bones in the spine (vertebrae) collapse, leading to severe pain, loss of height, and spinal deformities like kyphosis (a forward curvature of the spine). The Kyphoplasty procedure not only aims to relieve pain but also to restore the height and stability of the affected vertebrae, thereby improving the patient’s overall spinal alignment and quality of life.

Who Can Benefit from Kyphoplasty?

Kyphoplasty is particularly beneficial for patients suffering from vertebral compression fractures that have not responded to conservative treatments such as bed rest, pain medications, or bracing. Individuals who might benefit from this procedure include:

• Osteoporosis Patients: Osteoporosis is a leading cause of VCFs, particularly in older adults. The weakened bones are more susceptible to fractures, even with minimal trauma.
• Spinal Tumor Patients: Tumors that spread to the spine can weaken the vertebrae, increasing the risk of compression fractures.
• Trauma Patients: Individuals who have experienced a severe spinal injury that resulted in a vertebral compression fracture.

According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, approximately 750,000 VCFs occur annually in the United States, with many patients suffering from chronic pain and reduced mobility as a result. Kyphoplasty offers a targeted solution to these debilitating symptoms.

Conditions Treated with Kyphoplasty

Kyphoplasty is specifically designed to treat vertebral compression fractures, but it can also be effective in addressing associated conditions that stem from spinal instability and deformity. These conditions include:

• Chronic Back Pain: VCFs can cause persistent and severe back pain that limits daily activities. Kyphoplasty stabilizes the fracture, leading to significant pain relief.
• Kyphosis: Also known as a hunchback, kyphosis is a forward curvature of the spine that can develop due to untreated VCFs. Kyphoplasty can help correct this spinal deformity by restoring vertebral height.
• Loss of Height: VCFs often result in a noticeable loss of height due to the collapse of the vertebrae. By restoring the vertebrae to their original height, Kyphoplasty can help patients regain lost stature.

Kyphoplasty not only alleviates the acute pain associated with vertebral compression fractures but also prevents the long-term complications that can arise from untreated spinal deformities.

Why Choose Medici Orthopedic & Spine for Kyphoplasty?

At Medici Orthopedic & Spine, we are committed to providing advanced, minimally invasive treatments for spine conditions. Our state-of-the-art surgical center in Marietta is equipped with the latest medical technology, allowing our team of skilled specialists to perform Kyphoplasty with precision and care.

We understand that every patient’s condition is unique, which is why we take a personalized approach to treatment. Our spine specialists will conduct a thorough evaluation of your condition to determine if Kyphoplasty is the right option for you. Our goal is to relieve your pain, restore your mobility, and improve your overall quality of life while minimizing the need for more invasive surgical procedures.

The Kyphoplasty Procedure: What to Expect

Kyphoplasty is performed on an outpatient basis, meaning you can return home the same day. During the procedure, a small incision is made in the back, and a narrow tube is inserted into the fractured vertebra. A balloon is then carefully inflated inside the vertebra to create space and restore the bone to its original height. Once the space is created, the balloon is removed, and the cavity is filled with a special bone cement that stabilizes the fracture and prevents further collapse.

The entire procedure typically takes about an hour for each vertebra treated, and because it is minimally invasive, there is minimal blood loss and tissue damage. Most patients experience significant pain relief immediately after the procedure and can resume normal activities within a few days.

A study published in the Journal of Neurosurgery: Spine found that Kyphoplasty not only provides immediate pain relief but also improves spinal alignment and reduces the risk of subsequent fractures.

Post-Procedure Care and Recovery

After Kyphoplasty, our team at Medici Orthopedic & Spine will provide you with detailed post-operative instructions to ensure a smooth recovery. You may experience some mild soreness at the incision site, but this typically resolves within a few days. Follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor your progress and ensure the success of the procedure.

Most patients are able to return to their normal activities within a week, with a significant improvement in pain levels and spinal stability. Kyphoplasty offers long-lasting relief from the symptoms of vertebral compression fractures, allowing you to enjoy a better quality of life.

Experience the Medici Difference

At Medici Orthopedic & Spine, we are dedicated to helping our Atlanta area patients achieve the best possible outcomes with the least invasive treatments available. Kyphoplasty is just one of the many advanced options we offer to manage vertebral compression fractures and other spine conditions. Our commitment to patient-centric care means we work closely with you to develop a treatment plan that meets your unique needs and goals.

If you are struggling with the pain and limitations caused by vertebral compression fractures, contact Medici Orthopedic & Spine today to learn more about the Kyphoplasty Procedure. Let us help you find relief from your pain and restore your spinal health with this innovative and minimally invasive treatment option.