What are Vertebroplasty and Kyphoplasty?

Vertebroplasty and Kyphoplasty (also known as a Balloon Kyphoplasty) are minimally invasive procedures used to treat spinal compression fractures which are usually the result of osteoporosis or an accident, such as a fall.
When vertebrae are fractured, small pieces of bone can irritate spinal nerves or the spinal cord and cause pain and other symptoms. The goal of both Vertebroplasty and Kyphoplasty is to stabilize these bones by using biological cement to fill the spaces within the fracture.
The Spine Team at The Spine Institute of Louisiana has helped thousands of patients with spinal fractures return to an active and healthy lifestyle using a Vertebroplasty or Kyphoplasty procedure.

How are Vertebroplasty and Kyphoplasty Performed at The Spine Institute of Louisiana?

At The Spine Institute of Louisiana, both Vertebroplasty and Kyphoplasty are performed on an outpatient basis so that you are able to return home the same day as your procedure. In many cases, only a local anesthetic is needed for this procedure.
There is a small difference between the two procedures and your Spine Institute of Louisiana Spine Specialist will determine which is best based on your unique condition.

• Vertebroplasty. A small needle is inserted in the area of the spinal fracture and a biological cement mixture is injected into the vertebra to stabilize the fractures.
• Kyphoplasty. A small needle is inserted in the area of the spinal fracture. A small balloon is then inserted into the fractured vertebrae and carefully inflated to create space between the fractured portions (hence Balloon Kyphoplasty). Biological cement is then injected into the vertebra after the balloon is carefully removed.

Little to no discomfort is experienced during or after the procedure and you are allowed to return home shortly after.

Make an Appointment with a Spine Institute of Louisiana Spine Specialist Today

• If you have been considering a Vertebroplasty or Balloon Kyphoplasty procedure or experiencing the symptoms of a spine fracture, schedule an appointment with one of our Board Certified Spine Specialists.
• We will evaluate your unique lifestyle and goals to determine which type of procedure is best for you.