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Kyphoplasty

Kyphoplasty surgery is a minimally invasive procedure used for the treatment of spinal compression fractures. These fractures usually occur in the spinal vertebrae in patients with osteoporosis. The compression fractures typically occur in the thoracic region of the spine but sometimes may also in the lumbar region. The goal of performing kyphoplasty is to reduce pain due to the fracture, stabilize the vertebrae, and restore the vertebral column back to its height.

The neurosurgeon makes a half-inch incision on the affected area, and through X-ray guidance, a small inflated balloon is inserted into the fractured vertebrae. Once the balloon enters the vertebrae, the balloon tamps are inflated to restore the collapsed vertebrae's height and are sealed with special substances. The balloon is then deflated and removed from the vertebrae, and the new bone cavity is left behind. Patients undergoing kyphoplasty are given local or general anesthesia, and the surgery takes about one to two hours per vertebra. 

At UMMC, we have trained neurosurgeons who perform a careful evaluation and decide whether kyphoplasty can improve patients' overall health and quality of life. We have cutting-edge technology in terms of equipment as well as operating rooms. Patients who have osteoporosis or those who have experienced severe back trauma could be the candidates for this revolutionary procedure.