Kyphoplasty & Vertoplasty

What Are Kyphoplasty and Vertoplasty?

Kyphoplasty surgery and vertoplasty surgery are innovative, minimally invasive procedures that repair spinal fractures and restore stability to weakened vertebrae. Both procedures fall under the category of compression fracture surgery, offering relief for patients whose bones have been weakened by osteoporosis or injury. These surgeries help patients regain mobility and improve overall quality of life by relieving pain, restoring the spine's shape, and enhancing stability.

How Kyphoplasty and Vertoplasty Surgeries Are Performed

Both procedures are performed under real-time imaging to ensure precision and safety at every step. Your surgeon begins by numbing the treatment area and making a small incision near the affected vertebra. A narrow, hollow tube is then carefully inserted to access the damaged bone without disturbing the surrounding tissue.

• In kyphoplasty surgery, the surgeon threads a tiny balloon through the tube and gently inflates it to restore the vertebra’s original height and shape. Once the space is created, the balloon is removed and filled with medical-grade bone cement, which hardens quickly to stabilize the bone.

• In vertoplasty surgery, the surgeon injects bone cement directly into the fractured vertebra to reinforce its structure and relieve pressure on surrounding nerves.

Both procedures typically take less than an hour and are completed using local or light anesthesia.

Conditions Treated by Kyphoplasty and Vertoplasty

Kyphoplasty and vertoplasty address painful spinal fractures that limit mobility and affect daily life. One of the most common causes is vertebral compression fractures, which occur when weakened spinal bones collapse under pressure. These injuries often result from osteoporosis but can also develop after trauma, cancer-related bone loss, or long-term steroid use. By reinforcing the affected vertebrae, these procedures relieve pain, restore stability, and support long-term osteoporosis treatment. When exploring forms of surgery for a vertebral compression fracture, these procedures are among the most effective in helping patients recover function and reduce pain.

Who Is a Good Candidate for These Surgeries?

Ideal candidates experience persistent pain from a recent vertebral compression fracture that has not improved with rest or medication. Kyphoplasty or vertoplasty surgeries often benefit patients with osteoporosis or other conditions that weaken spinal bones. Candidates should be in good health to undergo a brief outpatient procedure and capable of following post-surgical instructions. A consultation with a spine specialist at Sonoran Spine helps determine whether these treatments are the best approach to relieving pain and restoring mobility.

Recovery Process After Surgery

Thanks to their minimally invasive nature, recovery from kyphoplasty or vertoplasty is typically quick. Most patients go home the same day and begin feeling relief soon after treatment.

Typical recovery includes:

• Pain improvement: Noticeable relief often occurs within hours.

• Activity: Light movement is encouraged within a few days, while heavy lifting or strenuous activity should wait until cleared by your provider.

• Follow-up care: Your Sonoran Spine specialist monitors healing and ensures long-term comfort.

With proper care, most patients regain mobility, confidence, and the ability to return to daily life.

Expert Spine Care You Can Trust

Kyphoplasty and vertebroplasty offer lasting relief from painful spinal fractures while restoring strength and stability to your spine. At Sonoran Spine, our specialists combine advanced surgical techniques with compassionate care to help you heal and move forward with confidence.

To explore your treatment options, make an appointment with our expert team and take the next step toward lasting relief and restored mobility.

Image source: Shutterstock / Kansuda2 Kaewwannarat