Kyphoplasty Specialist

What is kyphoplasty?

Kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive procedure that involves creating space in a collapsed vertebra with a balloon-like device, then injecting a medical-grade cement mixture into the opening. 

Sometimes called balloon vertebroplasty, this procedure restores a normal shape and height to a broken or fractured backbone.

Although individual results vary, most people who get kyphoplasty experience pain relief and improved mobility within 48 hours of the procedure.

What conditions does kyphoplasty treat?

Kyphoplasty is a treatment for compression fractures or small breaks in one or more of the vertebrae. A compression fracture can cause back pain and make it difficult to move normally. It can also make your spine shorten and curve forward into a hunched position.

Osteoporosis, a condition that weakens your bones, is the primary cause of compression fractures. Spinal tumors can also cause compression fractures that require kyphoplasty treatment.

To be a candidate for kyphoplasty, your back pain must be related to a compression fracture and not other problems, like a herniated disc, arthritis, or spinal stenosis.

What should I expect from a kyphoplasty procedure?

First, Dr. Carlson performs a physical exam and reviews your imaging tests, such as X-rays or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans, to locate the compression fracture.

Dr. Carlson performs kyphoplasty as an outpatient procedure while you’re under general or local anesthesia. He uses fluoroscopy, a type of X-ray, to guide a needle to the fracture location. He uses the needle to inflate a balloon, which restores the bone to its natural shape and height. 

Then, he injects a special bone cement to maintain the shape and removes the needle.

Kyphoplasty usually takes less than an hour, but it may last longer if Dr. Carlson treats multiple vertebrae. You should be able to walk within an hour after the procedure but will need someone to drive you home. 

Some people experience immediate symptom relief, while others find that it takes a few days. You may be sore from the procedure for a day or two.

If you have a vertebral compression fracture, call Hawai’i Pain & Spine, or book an appointment online to find out if kyphoplasty is right for you.