Kyphoplasty, similar to vertebroplasty, is designed to stop the pain caused by a spinal fracture, to stabilize the bone, and to restore some or all of the lost vertebral body height caused by a compression fracture(s).

During Kyphoplasty a small incision is made in the back through which the doctor places a narrow tube. Using fluoroscopy to guide the tube to the correct position, a path is created through the back into the fracture area through the pedicle of the involved vertebrae.

Using fluoroscopy images, the doctor inserts a special balloon through the tube and into the vertebrae and then gently inflates this balloon. As the balloon inflates it elevates the compression of the vertebra and creates a cavity inside the vertebrae, which is filled with a cement like material called polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA). This material hardens quickly, stabilizing the bone.

The procedure takes about one hour for each vertebra involved. Patients will be observed closely in the recovery room immediately following the kyphoplasty procedure for about 1-3 hours. Patients should not drive until they are given approval by their doctor.