Kyphoplasty (vertebral augmentation) is an outpatient procedure used to treat spinal compression fractures. These fractures, also known as vertebral compression fractures (VCF), are typically caused by the natural effects of aging and osteoporosis.
When a VCF causes the vertebrae to collapse, it can develop an abnormal forward curve, resulting in a loss in height, poor posture, and severe back pain. Treatment to fix vertebral compression fractures soon after they happen is essential to restoring vertebral body height and size and avoiding risks of serious complications or additional fractures.
Often, vertebral compression fractures (VCFs) cause sharp back pain and may lead to chronic pain, kyphosis or dowager’s hump, loss of height, and declining health. Since one fracture can lead to another, VCFs must be diagnosed and treated early.
Kyphoplasty involves inserting a balloon to create a cavity in the damaged bone, then injecting a special cement to prop up the bone.
Contact your physician if you’re exhibiting any of these symptoms or if you are part of a risk group listed below:
