Kyphoplasty

Your doctor will examine you, possibly drawing blood for testing and using X-ray or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to locate the fractures.

An anesthesiologist will deliver medicine through an IV to either relax you and relieve your pain or put you to sleep.

With X-ray guidance, your doctor will insert a needle through your skin and back muscles into the bone, then inflate a balloon to help the vertebra regain its normal shape.

• Your doctor will inject the cement while checking X-rays to ensure it’s going into the right place.
• Your doctor will remove the needle, with no stitches needed.
• The entire procedure will probably take less than an hour, though it may last longer if more vertebrae are treated.

• You will spend time in a recovery room. You could go home the same day, but your doctor may want you to stay overnight.
• It’s possible that you can start walking an hour after the procedure. You may feel some soreness where the needle entered your back, but this lasts no more than a few days. You may quickly notice that you have less pain than you did before the surgery.
• Talk with your doctor about whether you should avoid any activities after the procedure.
• Your doctor may suggest taking certain vitamins, minerals and medications to help strengthen your bones and prevent additional spinal fractures.