What is a Kyphoplasty?
A kyphoplasty is a procedure used to treat vertebral compression fractures that may occur as a result of degenerative bone diseases, such as osteoporosis, trauma, or cancer. Kyphoplasty can also be used to restore height when a patient’s vertebrae has collapsed resulting in abnormal curvature of the spine.
A kyphoplasty procedure is often performed in conjunction with a vertebroplasty. During a vertebroplasty, cement is injected into the bone to stabilize a fracture. During a kyphoplasty, a balloon is inserted and inflated to create a cavity for the cement to be injected. As such, a kyphoplasty is also known as a balloon vertebroplasty. When performed together, these procedures can help reduce pain and increase mobility for patients who have not found relief with non-surgical treatments.