The kyphoplasty procedure is similar to the vertebroplasty procedure, in which a cavity is created by a small balloon (balloon tamp) and a small needle (trocar) which injects bone cement into the fractured vertebra to restore its height and relieve back pain.
How to Prepare for Kyphoplasty
- Plan to arrive 2-4 hours before your procedure in order to have lab tests drawn. Your interventional radiologist may also request additional imaging to get a closer look at the damaged vertebra.
- If you are currently taking blood thinners, you may need to stop a week before your procedure.
What to Expect
- This procedure is completed within one hour.
- You will be under light sedation, which is administered through an IV. You will be conscious during the procedure, but should not feel pain.
- You are on your stomach throughout the procedure, and your interventional radiologist access the damaged vertebra through the back.
- Your interventional radiologist makes a small incision on the back, and using X-ray guidance, inserts the balloon tamp into the fractured vertebra.
- The small balloon is inflated, pushing the vertebra back to its original position and creating a cavity within it.
- The trocar needle is inserted into this cavity, filling it with bone cement, which dries in a matter of minutes. Your interventional radiologist will continue to monitor this under X-ray to ensure completion.
- The needle is removed, and the area of incision is covered.
What to Expect after Kyphoplasty
- You will recover from the procedure within 4-6 hours, and can leave the hospital the same day that you were treated.
- You should find relief from your back pain within a few hours of the procedure.
- Your interventional radiologist will work with you to schedule a follow up appointment 1-2 weeks after the procedure to monitor your progress.
For More Information
For more information on the kyphoplasty procedure, or to schedule an appointment with an interventional radiologist, please call 847.570.2160.