Experienced Orthopedic Surgeon Serving San Joaquin County, & San Francisco Bay Area

Kyphoplasty / Vertebroplasty

Minimally invasive procedures used to treat compression fractures in the spine, typically caused by osteoporosis, trauma, or tumor-related conditions.

Spine Surgery

Kyphoplasty / Vertebroplasty

Kyphoplasty and vertebroplasty are minimally invasive procedures used to treat compression fractures in the spine, typically caused by osteoporosis, trauma, or tumor-related conditions. These procedures aim to alleviate pain, stabilize the fractured vertebra, and restore vertebral height.
In vertebroplasty, a small needle is inserted into the fractured vertebra under X-ray guidance. Bone cement is then injected into the fractured area, providing immediate stabilization and support. The cement hardens quickly, strengthening the weakened vertebra.
Kyphoplasty follows a similar process but includes an additional step to restore vertebral height. After the needle is inserted into the fractured vertebra, a balloon is inflated inside the vertebra to create a cavity. The cavity is then filled with bone cement, which solidifies, helping to restore the vertebral height and reduce the deformity caused by the compression fracture.
Both kyphoplasty and vertebroplasty are performed on an outpatient basis, meaning patients can usually return home the same day. The procedures provide rapid pain relief, and most patients experience immediate improvement in their symptoms. Recovery time is relatively short, and patients can gradually resume their daily activities under the guidance of their healthcare provider.
Dr. Morteza Farr -Experience Orthopedic Surgeon serving Northern California

Who Needs Kyphoplasty / Vertebroplasty Surgery?

If you are experiencing persistent back pain due to a vertebral compression fracture, kyphoplasty or vertebroplasty may be viable treatment options. Consult with a spine specialist who can evaluate your condition, discuss the benefits and risks, and guide you through the procedure. With kyphoplasty or vertebroplasty, you can aim to alleviate pain, regain spinal function, and enjoy an improved quality of life.

Benefits of Kyphoplasty / Vertebroplasty

The benefits of kyphoplasty and vertebroplasty are significant. These procedures can help reduce pain, improve mobility, and enhance the overall quality of life for individuals with vertebral compression fractures. By stabilizing the fractured vertebrae, they also help prevent further collapse and the development of spinal deformities such as kyphosis (excessive forward curvature of the spine)

Risks of Spine Surgery

Post-surgery, patients may require a short hospital stay for monitoring, pain management, and recovery. Physical therapy and rehabilitation exercises are often prescribed to aid in restoring neck strength and mobility.

While ACDF generally yields positive outcomes, as with any surgical procedure, potential risks and complications exist, including infection, bleeding, nerve damage, or the need for additional surgeries. It is crucial for patients to discuss the procedure, its risks, benefits, and expected recovery with their healthcare provider to make an informed decision about their treatment.

All surgeries have some risks, including:

Recovery from Spine Surgery

Recovery from spine surgery can take several weeks or months. The amount of time it takes to recover from surgery depends on the type of surgery that was performed. During your recovery, you will need to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully. This may include taking pain medication, using ice or heat, and resting. You may also need to attend physical therapy sessions.
The risks of spine surgery vary depending on the type of surgery that is being performed. It is important to discuss the risks of surgery with your doctor before you make a decision about whether or not to have surgery.

Choosing an Experienced Spine Surgeon

If you are considering spine surgery, it is important to choose a qualified surgeon. You should ask your doctor for recommendations or search for a surgeon online. When you are interviewing surgeons, be sure to ask about their experience, training, and approach to surgery. You should also feel comfortable with the surgeon and their staff.

Spine surgery can be a life-changing procedure. It is important to choose a qualified surgeon and to understand the risks and benefits of surgery before you make a decision.

Here are some additional things to keep in mind if you are considering spine surgery: