Vertebral Augmentation
Vertebral Augmentation
Vertebral Augmentation (also known as balloon kyphoplasty) is a minimally invasive procedure proven to significantly relieve pain, increase mobility, and improve quality of life without open surgery.[1][2][3][4][5][6][7]
Clinical outcomes from multiple studies [1][2][3][4][5][6][7]show that vertebral augmentation results in:
Vertebral augmentation is performed by specialists, including interventional radiologists, neuroradiologists, surgeons, and pain management physicians. During the procedure, one or two balloons are used to create a void or cavity in the collapsed vertebra into which bone cement is injected. The hardened cement creates an internal cast that stabilizes the fracture, thereby alleviating pain in approximately 90 percent of patients.[15]
Performed through a small incision in the back, vertebral augmentation can be done on an outpatient basis and usually requires only a local anesthetic and mild sedation, eliminating the possible complications that may result from open surgery. In some instances, general anesthesia is advised with a minimal hospital stay. [16][17]
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Before the procedure
Your doctor will do a physical exam and order x-rays and other imaging tests such as an MRI, CT, or bone scan. These tests help to determine the location of the fractured vertebrae, how recently they occurred, and whether or not vertebral augmentation is the most appropriate treatment.
During the procedure
Vertebral augmentation is performed under mild sedation and local anesthetic. Using x-ray guidance, a balloon is inserted into the fractured vertebra through a small incision in the back. The balloon is then inflated, creating a void or cavity. Once the void is created, the balloon is deflated and removed. The void is then filled with bone cement to help stabilize the fracture. As it hardens, the cement forms an internal cast that holds the vertebra in place. The incision is covered with a Band-Aid®. Vertebral augmentation generally takes about an hour per fracture treated.
After the procedure
After the procedure, you’ll lie on your back for a short time while the cement continues to harden. Your vital signs will be monitored. Typically, patients are able to go home with a few hours of treatment. Almost all patients undergoing vertebral augmentation experience a dramatic reduction in pain,[18][19][20][21][22][23][24] increased mobility, [18][19][20][21][22][24] and improved quality of life.[18][19][20][21]
