Kyphoplasty: Restring Spinal Health and Stability

Kyphoplasty is a surgical procedure to treat vertebral compression fractures, a common condition primarily affecting older individuals with traumatic injuries. It is a minimally invasive surgical procedure to treat vertebral compression fractures, osteoporosis, and traumatic injuries.

This breakthrough technique involves the use of specialized balloons and bone cement that are used to stabilize and restore the collapsed vertebrae. It provides pain relief and improves spinal alignment. Kyphoplasty has revolutionized the treatment of vertebral fractures by reducing pain, offering a quicker recovery time, and improving patients' overall quality of life. The Kyphoplasty Treatment cost in India is around $4500. In this article, we will learn more about kyphoplasty, its procedure, risks, and precautions to be taken.

What is Kyphoplasty

Kyphoplasty is a medical surgery usually performed to treat vertebral compression fractures. These fractures occur when the bones in the spine, called vertebrae, weaken and collapse. This often occurs due to conditions such as osteoporosis or trauma. Kyphoplasty aims to restore the height and shape of the affected vertebrae, reduce pain, and improve spinal alignment.

The Kyphoplasty Treatment cost in India depends on the number of vertebrates being treated and the method used.

Diagnosis of Kyphoplasty

Vertebral compression fractures can have various symptoms that may lead to kyphoplasty. These symptoms can vary in severity and may include:

Back Pain is the most common symptom of vertebral compression fractures. The pain is typically described as aching and often worsened by bending, lifting, or twisting. The pain can be constant or intermittent and may become chronic if left untreated.

Spinal Deformity: The spine can develop an abnormal curvature when the vertebrae collapse. It results in a hunched or stooped posture. This condition is known as kyphosis and can cause physical discomfort and affect a person's self-image and confidence.

Limited Mobility: Vertebral compression fractures can restrict a person's motion and make it difficult to perform daily activities. Simple tasks like walking, bending, or sitting for extended periods can become challenging.

Height Loss: Compression fractures can lead to a loss of height. Multiple fractures can cause a noticeable decrease in a person's height—this height loss results from the collapse and compression of the vertebrae.

Nerve Compression Symptoms: In some cases, the collapsed vertebrae can exert pressure on nearby nerves and cause additional symptoms. These may include radiating pain or numbness in the back, chest, abdomen, or limbs.

Procedure

Kyphoplasty is a surgical procedure performed, and it typically follows the following steps:

Patient Preparation: The patient is positioned on the operating table, and the surgical area is cleaned and sterilized. The patient is monitored throughout the procedure.

Incision and Access: A small incision, approximately 1 cm long, is made in the back of the affected vertebra. The surgeon guides a needle through the incision and advances it into the collapsed vertebra with the help of fluoroscopy.

Balloon Insertion: A specialized kyphoplasty balloon is inserted through the needle and positioned within the collapsed vertebra. Once in place, the balloon is inflated, creating a cavity within the vertebra.

Cavity Creation: When the balloon inflates, it elevates the collapsed vertebra and restores its height by creating a void in the bone. This helps to reduce the compression and create space for cement injection.

Cement Injection: The balloon is deflated and removed once the desired height is achieved. The cavity created by the balloon is then filled with bone cement, which is carefully injected into the vertebra. The cement hardens quickly and stabilizes the fractured vertebra.

Finalizing the Procedure: After the cement injection, the needle is removed, and pressure is applied to the incision site to minimize bleeding.

The entire kyphoplasty procedure usually takes one to two hours, depending on the number of treated vertebrae. Patients are typically monitored briefly in the recovery area before being discharged on the same day. The Kyphoplasty Treatment cost in India starts from around $4500.

Postoperative Precautions

After undergoing kyphoplasty, it is necessary to follow postoperative precautions to minimize the risk of complications. The following precautions are recommended:

It is crucial to rest and recover after the procedure. Your doctor will provide instructions regarding it.

It is common to experience discomfort or pain after kyphoplasty. Your doctor may prescribe pain medications or relievers to manage postoperative pain.

Proper care of the incision site is necessary to prevent infection. Follow the instructions of the doctor regarding keeping the incision clean and dry.

Your surgeon may suggest wearing a back brace or corset to support the treated area.

Depending on your condition and the surgeon's recommendation, you may be advised to undergo physical therapy.

You should attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your doctor. To support bone health and reduce the risk of future fractures, your doctor can advise some lifestyle modifications to you. These may include a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, regular weight-bearing exercises, and avoiding smoking or excessive alcohol consumption.

Many hospitals offer this treatment. Kyphoplasty Treatment cost in India depends upon many factors, such as the technology used and the expertise of the doctors.