Spinal Fractures

Osteoporosis is a condition that causes weakening of the bones and is typically seen in people as they age. Patients with osteoporosis are at a higher risk of vertebra fractures (spinal bone fractures). Spinal fractures are extremely painful and can limit movement. A fracture in the spine is more difficult to treat because surgery can be riskier.

Treatment: Kyphoplasty

Kyphoplasty is a procedure used to restore the height of the fractured vertebra to reduce the pain it causes. The doctors guide a small balloon through a catheter to the area where the vertebra has collapsed. Once the balloon is inflated and the normal height of the spine is restored, a medical grade cement is inserted to hold the vertebra in place. Kyphoplasty has a low complication rate.

The procedure can be done under local or general anesthesia. Patients usually go home the same day as the procedure but may spend a night in the hospital.