What to Expect Before, During, and After Kyphoplasty

A vertebral compression fracture (small break in a spinal bone) can cause intense pain, limit mobility, and impact quality of life. Kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive treatment option that effectively stabilizes the fractured vertebrae and eases pain.

Third Coast Vascular offers comprehensive interventional radiology, wound care, and vascular care. Kyphoplasty is an in-office procedure performed under the guidance of state-of-the-art imaging technology. 

For patients considering or scheduled for this procedure, knowing what to expect can contribute to a smoother process. 

Advantages of kyphoplasty

The following are some of the primary advantages of kyphoplasty:

Minimally invasive approach

Utilizing small incisions to perform the procedure significantly reduces potential risks, such as infections. This approach promotes a faster healing process, allowing patients to recuperate more swiftly than traditional surgeries.

Immediate pain alleviation

Prompt pain relief is a major advantage of kyphoplasty. Many patients who undergo this procedure report a notable decrease in discomfort shortly after. 

Restoration of structural integrity

Kyphoplasty goes beyond just alleviating pain. It restores the height and alignment of the affected vertebrae. By doing so, the procedure ensures that the spine reverts closer to its natural, pre-injury state, which can be pivotal for overall spinal health and posture.

Brief hospital stay

Hospitalization can be a concern for many when considering medical procedures. Kyphoplasty is typically an outpatient procedure, translating to minimal disruption to daily life and a quicker transition back to normalcy.

Before the procedure

Before the kyphoplasty procedure, board-certified interventional radiologist Awais Siddique, MD uses imaging to evaluate the spine and locate the fracture. 

In preparation, patients need to provide a list of current medications and may need to stop certain medications before the procedure. The care team communicates any restrictions, such as stopping blood thinners. 

During the procedure

After anesthesia administration, a small incision is made in the back, using X-ray guidance to insert a narrow tube into the fractured vertebra.

A specialized balloon is then inflated within the vertebral body to create space. Once the desired space is achieved, the balloon is deflated, and the cavity is filled with bone cement. Precision is paramount at Third Coast Vascular to ensure stabilization of the fracture.

Recovering from kyphoplasty

Recovering from kyphoplasty is quicker than recovering from many other spinal procedures. After the procedure, patients may experience some soreness or discomfort at the injection site, but this typically subsides within a few days. 

Most patients notice significant relief from pain almost immediately after the procedure. Following aftercare instructions provided by the physician is crucial. This may include refraining from strenuous activities and lifting heavy objects for a specified duration. 

Post-recovery, follow-up appointments are scheduled to assess healing progression and modify the treatment plan if needed. These sessions are imperative for evaluating the success of the kyphoplasty and ensuring patients are healing as expected.

The physician may also recommend a tailored physical therapy and rehabilitation regimen. This is designed to bolster the back's strength and enhance posture, integral for long-term kyphoplasty success. Collaboration with physiotherapists ensures the development of a tailored program that addresses individual needs.

Kyphoplasty at Third Coast Vascular

While conventional treatments might provide temporary relief from symptoms, they often fail to tackle the root cause. Kyphoplasty offers an approach that both reduces pain and rehabilitates the spinal structure.

Contact us for more information on kyphoplasty, or to schedule a consultation with a Third Coast Vascular provider today.