Kyphoplasty: A Minimally Invasive Procedure for Spinal Fracture Relief

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Spinal fractures can cause severe pain, limiting mobility and reducing overall quality of life. Kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive procedure designed to stabilize spinal compression fractures, relieve pain, and restore spinal height. At Ascend Pain & Wellness, we specialize in advanced spine treatments like kyphoplasty, providing long-term relief for patients suffering from vertebral compression fractures.

What is Kyphoplasty?

Kyphoplasty is a surgical procedure that uses a specialized cement injection to stabilize fractured vertebrae. The procedure is commonly performed on patients with osteoporotic fractures, spinal trauma, or fractures caused by cancer-related bone loss.

By restoring vertebral height and strength, kyphoplasty helps reduce pain, improve posture, and enhance mobility.

Learn more about spine pain therapy at Ascend Pain & Wellness.

Who is a Candidate for Kyphoplasty?

Kyphoplasty is recommended for patients with:

  • Osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (VCFs) – Common in older adults due to bone loss.
  • Spinal fractures from trauma or injury – Accidents, falls, or sports-related injuries.
  • Cancer-related spinal fractures – Bone weakening due to metastatic tumors.
  • Persistent back pain that limits mobility – When conservative treatments fail to provide relief.

If left untreated, spinal fractures can lead to chronic pain, spinal deformity, and reduced lung function. Kyphoplasty offers a quick and effective solution to stabilize the spine and prevent further complications.

Explore other spine pain treatments.

How is Kyphoplasty Performed?

Kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive, outpatient procedure that takes about 30 to 45 minutes per vertebra. The process includes:

  1. Patient Preparation – The procedure is performed under local or general anesthesia, depending on the patient’s condition.
  2. Balloon Insertion – A small balloon is inserted into the fractured vertebra to create space and restore height.
  3. Bone Cement Injection – Once the space is created, medical-grade bone cement is injected to stabilize the vertebra.
  4. Immediate Results – The cement hardens within minutes, providing immediate pain relief and structural support.

Most patients go home the same day and can resume light activities within 24 hours.

Learn about other advanced spinal procedures.

What to Expect After Kyphoplasty?

Following the procedure, patients typically experience significant pain relief within 48 hours. Most can resume daily activities within a few days, but heavy lifting and strenuous exercise should be avoided for a few weeks.

Follow-up care includes physical therapy and lifestyle modifications to strengthen the spine and prevent future fractures.

Benefits of Kyphoplasty

  • Immediate pain relief for most patients.
  • Restores spinal height and corrects posture.
  • Minimally invasive with no stitches or large incisions.
  • Fast recovery with same-day discharge.
  • Prevents further fractures by stabilizing the spine.

For patients suffering from multiple fractures or severe spinal instability, additional treatments such as vertebroplasty or spinal fusion may be considered.

Read about other minimally invasive spine procedures.

Long-Term Spinal Health After Kyphoplasty

To maintain spinal health and prevent future fractures, patients are encouraged to:

  • Follow a bone-strengthening diet rich in calcium and vitamin D.
  • Engage in weight-bearing exercises to improve bone density.
  • Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, which can weaken bones.
  • Consider osteoporosis medications if recommended by a physician.

If kyphoplasty does not fully resolve pain, additional treatments like spinal cord stimulation may be recommended.

Learn about spinal cord stimulation for chronic pain.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does kyphoplasty last?

Once the bone cement hardens, it provides permanent stabilization. However, additional fractures in other vertebrae may require further treatment.

Is kyphoplasty painful?

The procedure itself is not painful, as patients receive anesthesia. Some mild soreness may occur for a few days after the procedure.

How soon can I return to normal activities?

Most patients resume daily activities within 24 to 48 hours, but high-impact activities should be avoided for a few weeks.

Will I need more than one kyphoplasty?

If multiple vertebrae are fractured, kyphoplasty can be performed on several levels during the same procedure.

Is kyphoplasty covered by insurance?

Most insurance plans cover kyphoplasty for medically necessary spinal fractures. Our team can help verify coverage.

Why Choose Ascend Pain & Wellness for Kyphoplasty?

At Ascend Pain & Wellness, we offer expert spine care using the latest minimally invasive techniques. Our specialists ensure precision and safety, providing highly effective treatment for spinal fractures.

  • Board-certified spine specialists with extensive kyphoplasty experience.
  • State-of-the-art imaging technology for precise treatment.
  • Comprehensive pain management plans for long-term spinal health.

Schedule Your Consultation Today

If you are suffering from spinal fractures or chronic back pain, kyphoplasty may be the solution. Contact Ascend Pain & Wellness today to schedule a consultation.

Call (708) 550-7005 or visit our website for more information.

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