Kyphoplasty

What Is Kyphoplasty?

Kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive procedure for painful vertebral compression fractures. A small balloon is inflated inside the fractured vertebra to create a space, which is then filled with medical bone cement. The cement hardens quickly, stabilizing the bone with the goal of reducing pain and helping you return to activity.

Conditions It May Help

• Painful compression fractures from osteoporosis
• Certain fractures caused by tumors affecting the spine
• Fractures that remain painful despite rest, bracing and medication

How It Is Done

You receive sedation or anesthesia and lie face down. Using fluoroscopy, Dr. Rema guides a narrow tube into the fractured vertebra through a small skin opening, inflates the balloon, removes it, and fills the space with cement. A single level typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes.

What to Expect

Kyphoplasty is done in Dr. Rema's Kingston office, and patients go home the same day. Some notice pain improvement within days. Soreness at the needle site is common for a few days. Dr. Rema may also recommend bone health evaluation and treatment to help lower the risk of future fractures.

Possible Side Effects and Risks

Soreness, bleeding or infection. Uncommon risks include cement leaking outside the bone, nerve injury, and new fractures in nearby vertebrae. Dr. Rema will review your medical history and medications, including blood thinners, before your procedure.

Take the Next Step

Call 845-245-6033 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Rema at Hudson Valley Pain Management, 33 Grand Street, Suite 33A, Kingston, NY 12401. Results vary from person to person, and Dr. Rema will review the benefits and risks for your situation.