Kyphoplasty for Spine Fracture Pain

More than 40 million people in the United States have osteoporosis (a decrease in the amount of bone mass) or have thinning of the bones that puts them at risk for spine fractures (broken bones). Thinning of the bones can occur at any age, but it is most common in older adults. “Compression” fractures are caused when weakened bone in the spine collapses. This usually causes severe back pain. When several of the bones collapse, loss of height or stooped posture (sometimes called “widow’s hump”) may occur. Usually, the fracture gets better by itself, and the pain finally goes away. But some patients have ongoing pain because the collapsed bone continues to move and break.

How are spinal fractures treated?

Most fractures of the spine are treated with bed rest until the pain goes away. Pain medicines, back braces and physical therapy may also be used. For some patients, doctors may prescribe a medicine called calcitonin. It appears to help make the bone stronger. Sometimes, patients may need surgery to secure the spine using a bone graft or an internal metal device. A treatment called kyphoplasty may help hold the fractured bone in place and relieve pain.

What is percutaneous kyphoplasty?

Percutaneous kyphoplasty is a procedure that involves placing a small needle into the crushed bone. The doctor guides the needle into position using special X-ray equipment, so open surgery isn’t necessary. Once the needle is in position, a bone cement is injected into the bone to secure it. Several crushed bones can be treated at the same time. The procedure generally takes about one hour for each bone that is treated. It is usually done using only numbing medicine (local anesthetic). Some patients who are in severe pain may need extra medicine to make them sleepy. Usually, patients can leave the hospital a few hours after the procedure is done.

What is the recovery like?

Many patients feel pain relief right away after kyphoplasty. Most report that their pain is gone or is much better within 48 hours. Most patients resume normal activity within 24 hours.

Is the procedure safe?

Kyphoplasty is safe. The bone cement used to secure the broken bone is safe. Patients with tumors on the spine may be at slightly higher risk of complications. You should always discuss the risks of any procedure with your doctor.