Kyphoplasty and Vertebroplasty Surgery

Kyphoplasty and Vertebroplasty Surgery

Kyphoplasty and vertebroplasty are minimally invasive procedures that help preserve the integrity of the spinal column. Typically, patients will need one of these two surgeries to reduce pain after spinal compression fractures. Learning the difference between kyphoplasty and vertebroplasty and which option is best for you can help you make more informed decisions regarding your care.

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Why Choose New York Spine Institute for Your Kyphoplasty and Vertebroplasty Surgery?

Quality Care

The experts at NYSI provide unparalleled care and expertise for all your back pain needs.

Industry Leaders

Our institution is led by Alexandre B. de Moura, M.D., FAAOS, who serves as medical director. Our practice’s spine doctors are industry leaders with decades of experience providing effective care.

Multiple Languages

NYSI treats patients from around the world, and our staff speaks a mixture of Spanish, Portuguese, French, German, Italian and Russian.

What Is Kyphoplasty?

The goal of kyphoplasty is to reduce kyphosis, which occurs when the spinal cord rounds forward after a compression fracture. This surgery typically involves a minimal incision, where the surgeon inserts a special balloon into the fractured bone and inflates it to restore the height of the spinal column. The surgeon then uses orthopedic cement to bind the fracture and strengthen the vertebra while relieving pain.

What Is Vertebroplasty?

Vertebroplasty shares kyphoplasty’s goal of pain relief. During a vertebroplasty procedure, the surgeon uses a special hollow needle to insert acrylic cement, or polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), into the vertebrae to strengthen them and reduce pain.

Understanding the Difference Between Kyphoplasty and Vertebroplasty

The main difference between kyphoplasty and vertebroplasty is their treatment processes. Kyphoplasty restores the spine’s height while stabilizing the fracture, while vertebroplasty only stabilizes the fracture. The choice between which procedure you undergo will largely depend on your specific circumstances and the nature of the fracture.

Signs You Need Vertebroplasty or Kyphoplasty

Some of the main indications for vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty include:

Severe back pain
Limited mobility
Reduction in height
Numbness, tingling or weakness in the legs
Evidence of vertebral body collapse in an X-ray, MRI or CT scan
Lack of improvement after nonsurgical treatment
Recent fracture from low-impact injury or fall

What Does Vertebroplasty and Kyphoplasty Recovery Look Like?

The recovery for vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty is generally quick. However, the process can vary based on your health conditions and the procedure’s duration. Typical recovery for both procedures includes:

Post-procedure care: Your care team will monitor your vitals after the procedure. If your vital signs look good, you may be discharged from the hospital that day.
Pain management: Many patients experience an immediate reduction in pain. If you experience any discomfort at the injection site, your care team will prescribe pain medication.
Activity restrictions: We generally recommend patients rest for 24 to 48 hours after their procedure. You can return to light activities after a few days and high-impact activities after several weeks.
Follow-up appointments: You will attend a follow-up appointment a few weeks after your surgery to assess recovery and evaluate your pain levels. If needed, we will perform additional imaging to ensure proper cement placement.
Long-term recovery: A full recovery can take several weeks to months. Your team will discuss ongoing pain management if needed to prevent future fractures.

Doctor diagnosing back pain for female patient

Schedule Your Consultation for Kyphoplasty or Vertebroplasty Surgery

Take the first step toward relieving spinal pain by scheduling your consultation with the New York Spine Institute team today!

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