What is Balloon Kyphoplasty?

If a patient has vertebral compression fractures or scoliosis, a physician may recommend balloon kyphoplasty. This procedure is minimally invasive, and takes 30 minutes to an hour for each vertebra. Balloon kyphoplasty can help to relieve back pain and to properly align the spine.

Who needs Balloon Kyphoplasty?

If a patient has been diagnosed with a vertebral compression fracture due to osteoporosis, spinal trauma, or tumors, a physician may recommend balloon kyphoplasty. Symptoms of vertebral compression fracture can include height loss, weakness, numbness, and problems with mobility.

What are the steps in Balloon Kyphoplasty?

Insertion of Instruments

After a half-inch incision has been made, the surgeon uses special instruments to create a working channel in the damaged vertebral body.

Restoration of Vertebral Height

An inflatable bone tamp is inserted.

Inflating the Tamp

A cavity is created in the vertebral body by inflating the tamp.

Deflating the Tamp

The device is deflated. This leaves the cavity open.

End of Procedure

The cavity is then filled with bone cement to return stability to the damaged area. Tools are removed, and the incisions are closed.

After Surgery

Balloon kyphoplasty takes only half an hour to an hour per vertebrae. Most patients are released from the hospital within 24 hours. With this procedure, bracing isn't needed, and patients can return to their normal activities. Heavy lifting should be avoided for six weeks at the least.