OVERVIEW

What is Vertebroplasty & Kyphoplasty?

Kyphoplasty and vertebroplasty are minimally invasive surgical procedures used in interventional pain management to treat vertebral compression fractures which are common in osteoporosis, metastatic tumors, and traumatic injuries. These procedures attempt to stabilize the fractured vertebra, reduce pain, and restore vertebral height.

• Vertebroplasty is a minimally invasive spinal procedure designed to stabilize vertebral compression fractures, typically caused by osteoporosis, cancer, or trauma. The goal is to relieve pain and stabilize the spine in a relatively quick and straightforward procedure. During the procedure using fluoroscopy, a hollow needle (trocar) is carefully inserted through the skin and back muscles until it reaches the fractured vertebra. Once the needle is correctly positioned within the vertebral body, a special bone cement (polymethylmethacrylate, PMMA) is slowly injected. The cement quickly hardens, stabilizing the fracture. Pain relief can be immediate for some patients, while others may notice improvement over the following days. For most patients can resume normal activities within 24 to 48 hours but should avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activities for a few weeks.
• Kyphoplasty, like vertebroplasty, is a minimally invasive surgical procedure designed to treat painful vertebral compression fractures, particularly those caused by osteoporosis, cancer, or traumatic injury. The objective of kyphoplasty is to alleviate pain, stabilize the fracture, and restore some or all of the lost vertebral body height due to the compression fracture. During the procedure using fluoroscopy, a hollow needle (trocar) is carefully inserted through the skin and back muscles until it reaches the fractured vertebra. The difference with Kyphoplasty is that a balloon is then carefully inflated to create a cavity within the vertebra and restore the height of the compressed vertebral body. The inflation may also help correct the deformity of the spine due to the fracture. Once the desired expansion is achieved, the balloon is deflated and withdrawn. Pain relief often occurs rapidly and allows patients to return to normal activities within a few days.

Where on the Body is Vertebroplasty & Kyphoplasty Procedures Done ?

Both Vertebroplasty and Kyphoplasty procedures are done on the spine.

What are the Indications for Vertebroplasty & Kyphoplasty?

• Vertebral compression fractures due to osteoporosis that are causing significant pain and have not responded to conservative treatment.
• Vertebral compression fractures due to osteoporosis that are causing significant pain and have not responded to conservative treatment.
• Painful vertebral fractures not responding to conservative treatments.

What are the Benefits of Vertebroplasty & Kyphoplasty?

• Pain Relief: Provides rapid and significant pain relief for many patients.
• Restoration of Vertebral Height: Kyphoplasty can partially or fully restore the height of the collapsed vertebral body.
• Improved Posture: By restoring vertebral height, kyphoplasty can improve the spinal alignment and reduce the kyphotic deformity often associated with vertebral fractures.
• Prevention of Further Deterioration: The bone cement stabilizes the fracture, which can prevent further collapse.
• Increased Mobility: Many patients experience restored mobility and improved quality of life following the procedure

How Effective are Vertebroplasty & Kyphoplasty?

Vertebroplasty and Kyphoplasty are generally effective in relieving pain caused by compression fractures. Some studies suggest that it can also restore a significant amount of vertebral height and improve the patient’s posture and reduce the likelihood of future fractures and spinal curvature deformities.

Key Considerations Include:

• Cement Leakage: The most common complication is leakage of the cement into surrounding areas which can cause complications if it compresses spinal nerves or the spinal cord.
• Infection: As with any procedure, there is a risk of infection, although it is rare.
• New Fractures: There is a potential risk of new fractures in adjacent vertebrae due to altered spinal mechanics.

How does Vertebroplasty & Kyphoplasty? with other Treatments?

• Physical Therapy: After Vertebroplasty or Kyphoplasty, patients often work with physical therapists to:
  • Strengthen the muscles supporting the spine.
  • Improve posture and alignment.
  • Enhance flexibility and range of motion in unaffected areas.
  • Develop safe movement strategies that prevent further injury.
• Oral Medications: Osteoporosis medications to strengthen bone such as bisphosphonates.
• Behavioral Therapy: Chronic pain can have psychological impacts. Behavioral therapy can help patients develop coping strategies to manage pain and its effects on their quality of life.
• Lifestyle Modifications: Lifestyle changes to diet and exercise modifications will be required to improve bone health.

What are the Benefits of Working with Foundation Pain & Spine?

Consulting Dr. Justin Thompson at Foundation Pain & Spine provides several benefits, including:

• Expertise: Specialized knowledge in diagnosing and treating pain with the most advanced techniques.
• Tailored Treatment Plans: Customized approaches to pain management that address the unique needs of each patient.
• Access to Advanced Treatments: Including the latest in pain block technology and other cutting-edge interventions.
• Holistic Care: Focus on treating the whole patient, not just the symptoms, including the physical, emotional, and psychological aspects of pain.
• Improved Quality of Life: The ultimate goal is to reduce pain, improve functionality, and enhance the overall quality of life for patients suffering from chronic pain conditions.

Working with Dr. Justin Thompson at Foundation Pain & Spine ensures access to a comprehensive range of treatments and a personalized care plan designed to effectively manage pain and support patients in achieving their wellness goals. By leveraging the full spectrum of pain management techniques, including advanced pain blocks and multimodal therapies, patients can find significant relief and a path forward beyond their pain.