What is a kyphoplasty

Patients suffering from a painful vertebral fracture can be helped with a new method. Kyphoplasty is one of the most modern procedures for repairing vertebral fractures. To do this, an approximately 1 centimeter long skin incision is first made under anesthesia. A catheter is inserted directly into the vertebral body via this access and a balloon is pushed into the fractured vertebra via a working cannula.

The balloon is inflated under constant X-ray monitoring so that the vertebra can rise. The balloon is then removed and the vertebral body is filled with bone cement via the catheter. This surgical plastic has a very high primary stability. The vertebral body is thus completely restored and the vertebral fracture no longer causes pain. Shortly after the operation, the patient is pain-free and able to fully exercise.

When is kyphoplasty used?

Kyphoplasty was developed as a new procedure for repairing osteoporotic vertebral fractures. Patients who suffer from osteoporosis and have fractured their vertebrae as a result are helped quickly and effectively with this relatively minor surgical procedure. In addition, patients who suffer from a cancer-related vertebral fracture benefit from the latest method Kypho-IORT. Kypho-IORT is a combined treatment strategy in which the bone metastases are irradiated in high doses in one operation and the vertebral body is then filled with bone cement.

How long does a kyphoplasty take?

The procedure lasts 30 minutes and takes place under general anesthesia. If you are in good general health, kyphoplasty can also be performed on an outpatient basis. The patient is placed in a prone position with 2 needles in the fractured vertebra. A cavity is then created using a small balloon and bone cement is filled in via the catheter. The success rate for a vertebral fracture that is fresh or a few months old is between 80-90 percent. This modern method is therefore one of the most promising treatments for vertebral fractures.

What is the goal of a kyphoplasty?

The goal of kyphoplasty is to successfully treat a patient's pain and stabilize the vertebral bodies that have fractured due to the lack of supportive strength of their bony trabeculae.

How long does it take to be pain free again?

The patient can stand up immediately after the operation and bear full weight. 15 minutes after the operation, the surgical plastic is fully hardened and resilient. So there is no need for rehabilitation. Wearing a corset is recommended to protect against too much activity because of the freedom from pain. A physiotherapist explains the correct behavior to the patient after the operation and 1 to 2 days after the operation, the patient can be discharged from the clinic. Since kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive procedure, the risks for patients are considered to be very low.

Kyphoplasty should always be performed by highly experienced surgeons. Internationally recognized specialist surgeons work in our Apex-Spine Spinal Center. They have experience from countless operations and some have developed their own surgical methods. Trust only the best for your best. Come to us.