Spine Fracture Treatment

Pain Relief & Restoration for Collapsed Vertebrae

If you’ve had a recent fall, coughing spell or activity that has resulted in significant low to mid-back pain, you may be diagnosed with a vertebral compression fracture. These types of fractures are especially problematic in patients with osteoporosis, and they used to require bracing and a cessation of activity—for quite a while.

Now, advances in medical technology have resulted in a highly successful, minimally invasive procedure called kyphoplasty. This proven treatment option is ideal for spinal compression fractures, since it repairs the injury, restores alignment and reduces the chance of future spine issues. Unlike the long recovery associated with bed rest, pain medication and spinal bracing, kyphoplasty has a short recuperation time. Some patients can return to normal activity as soon as one to two days post-procedure.

What Is Kyphoplasty?

Kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive surgery performed under local or general anesthesia. The procedure rebuilds the vertebral space lost as a result of spinal compression fractures. First, a small incision is made in the skin of the back. Then, using advanced x-ray imaging technology, a narrow tube is guided through the skin to the fractured vertebra. A special balloon called a bone tamp is inserted through this tube and gently inflated, restoring the vertebral space to the desired height. The balloon is removed, and the restored space is filled with orthopedic cement called PMMA (Polymethylmethacrylate). As the cement hardens and repairs the fracture, it restores strength, stability and height to compressed vertebrae and relieves pain for the patient.