Texas Spine Care Can Help with

VERTEBROPLASTY AND KYPHOPLASTY

Vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty are minimally invasive spine surgeries for the stabilization of painful compression fractures of the vertebrae of the spine.

What Are Vertebroplasty and Kyphoplasty?

Vertebroplasty and Kyphoplasty are two minimally invasive surgical methods to stabilize and prevent further collapse and deformity of the spinal column from fractures, a condition known as vertebral compression fracture (VCF). Both procedures involve the placing medical bone cement into the fractured vertebra through a small incision in the skin under X-ray or MRI guidance.

When performing a vertebroplasty Dr. Bruggeman will inject the bone cement into the fractured bone through a hollow needle, reinforcing the damaged vertebra. A kyphoplasty (sometimes called a “balloon vertebroplasty”) also involves placement of bone cement through a hollow needle, but only after a balloon is first inserted into the fractured bone through the hollow needle to create additional space that the cement is then injected into after the balloon is removed. Kyphoplasty may be recommended if the vertebra has significant damage that results in in reduced height of the bone.

Both minimally invasive spine treatments have high success rates for pain relief and correcting the vertebral collapse or deformity of the spine.

Is Vertebroplasty and Kyphoplasty Right For Me?

Vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty treat progressive and severe back pain caused by vertebral compression fracture (VCF) or impaired bone healing after a fracture. Vertebral compression fractures (VCF) are often the result of osteoporosis, but can also be the result of pathologic issues related to spinal tumors or cancer. Patients experiencing kyphotic deformities of the spine causing a “hunched-over” appearance from fractures can find pain relief and some correction of the spinal deformities through the minimally invasive vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty treatments. Kyphoplasty can be considered for relief in cases of mid-back pain and when spinal issues of the neck manifest as pain between their shoulder blades.

Am I a Candidate for Vertebroplasty or Kyphoplasty?

A full evaluation, including an X-ray, MRI or CT scan, will be required by Dr. Bruggeman to determine whether you are an ideal candidate for either of these minimally invasive procedures.

To be considered an ideal candidate for vertebroplasty or kyphoplasty, patients’ progressive back pain will most likely be caused by osteoporotic or pathologic vertebral compression fractures and be so severe the pain has reduced mobility or normal function. Patients may not be an ideal candidate for vertebroplasty or kyphoplasty if pain and symptoms are caused by other spine conditions such as disc herniation, arthritis, or spinal stenosis. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Bruggeman to diagnose the cause of your pain and recommend the right course of treatment for your unique spine condition.

LET US EVALUATE YOUR PAIN

Take the first step toward a pain-free life. Use our online pain evaluation tool to determine what treatment may be right for you.