Spinal compression fractures affect the vertebrae, the structural bones encasing the spine. When these bones weaken, and individuals engage in strenuous actions that compress the vertebrae or experience falls, spinal compression fractures may occur. Symptoms include sharp and worsening back pain during motion, restricted spinal mobility, and a stooped posture. Kyphoplasty surgery is a common treatment.

Balloon kyphoplasty, a vertebral compression fracture treatment, is a minimally invasive procedure where surgeons create a small incision in the back and insert a narrow tube. With the guidance of X-ray imaging, the surgeon will insert a balloon through the tube into the fractured vertebra and inflate it to restore its height and shape. Once the desired result is achieved, the surgeon deflates the balloon, removes it, and injects a cement-like substance into the cavity to stabilize the vertebra and prevent a future collapse.

Local anesthesia is used during the procedure, and patients are only expected to experience mild postoperative soreness compared to more extensive spinal procedures. Although patients have a small risk of experiencing bleeding, infection, and bone cement leakage, when performed by experienced surgeons, kyphoplasty can treat vertebral compression fractures without significant problems.

Typically, a kyphoplasty takes one hour to perform. Patients should inform surgeons of all medications, alcohol use, and smoking and drinking habits beforehand to enable the safe administration of anesthesia. These activities should cease before the operation as per the surgeon’s guidelines. Most find relief within 1-3 days and can return to daily activities, though avoiding heavy lifting for six weeks allows proper healing.